Events

CPM Seminar Series - Dr Stephen Richardson

Date: 17 March 2027   Time: 15:00 - 16:00     

Title to be confirmed

The intervertebral disc (IVD) is formed from a central gelatinous nucleus pulposus (NP), surrounded by a highly ordered collagenous ring of annulus fibrosus (AF). It plays a vital role in load bearing and flexibility of the spine and age-related changes in phenotype and function of resident cell populations leads to IVD degeneration and ultimately back pain. We are currently utilising single cell RNAseq, combined with high-definition spatial transcriptomics and spatial proteomics to define the spatial gene/protein expression patterns in the developing human IVD. Alongside this, we are also developing 3D bioprinted IVD models and stem cell differentiation strategies to enable investigation into function of genes and signalling networks in regulating cell differentiation and healthy IVD matrix formation, with a long-term view of developing novel cell-based regenerative therapies to treat IVD degeneration and associated back pain.

Short Bio

I am Professor of Cell and Tissue Engineering in the Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine at The University of Manchester. My research focuses on understanding human musculoskeletal tissue development, homeostasis and degeneration, with a particular emphasis on the intervertebral disc. My group applies spatial multiomic profiling and functional gene interrogation to identify cellular mechanisms and therapeutic targets linked to tissue degeneration and repair. We integrate these biological insights with targeted stem cell differentiation studies, and integration of biomaterials, biofabrication and bioreactor technologies to create biomimetic tissue analogues for modelling development, disease and testing novel regenerative therapies. My work is supported by sustained external funding and extensive interdisciplinary collaborations across biosciences, engineering and clinical medicine. Alongside my research, I contribute to academic leadership through roles including Deputy Director of the Christabel Pankhurst Institute, Co-Director of Pankhurst Advanced Materials in Medicine and Global Treasurer of TERMIS.

Location:		Intervertebral Disc(overy): from multi-omic characterisation of development and degeneration to bioengineered models
Contact:		Julien Gautrot
Email:		j.gautrot@qmul.ac.uk

Updated by: Julien Gautrot