Professor Daniel Lambert

Tumour microenvironment 

I lead a research programme examining the role of the tumour microenvironment in head and neck cancer progression, with a particular interest in the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Funding from Yorkshire Cancer Research, the Academy of Medical Sciences, the Royal Society, and the MRC has supported this programme. I have a particular interest in the role of non-coding RNA and extracellular vesicles in regulating cellular interactions in the tumour microenvironment, with a particular emphasis on the role of fibroblasts and their potential as sources of biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This work was supported by a BBSRC IIKE grant with Ludger Limited, and contributed a EPSRC Programme grant award (£7.3 million) led by Prof. Graham Leggett. I am also PI on a BBSRC sLola bid in this area, currently under consideration. 

Ageing 

One of the key areas of research in my group, which originally stemmed from novel findings from studies of the tumour microenvironment, is cellular senescence. As we age, we accumulate senescent cells, and these contribute to many of the deleterious effects of ageing on oral and systemic health. We are applying a highly disciplinary approach, working with physical scientists and clinicians, to identify novel biomarkers of senescence to aid the development of drugs targeting senescent cells and their secretions, with the aim of enabling healthy ageing. 

Tissue engineering 

I am currently involved in a number of translational projects using tissue engineering approaches, such as examining the contribution of physical forces and the nature of the extracellular matrix and applying this knowledge to develop enhanced organotypic models, and developing novel devices to deliver therapeutic extracellular vesicles. All of this work is underpinned by the competitive recruitment of high calibre PhD students and is evidenced by the publication of papers in international journals. I have also established a number of fruitful collaborations within the Faculty, University, national and international research community as well as industrial and SME partners.