AREA OF EXPERTISE
Dr Sampson’s research, funded by Asthma UK and other sources, focuses on the leukotrienes, a group of local hormones produced by white blood cells that cause narrowing of the airways in asthma. The development of drugs that block leukotriene activity represents one of the most significant breakthroughs in the treatment of asthma for 20 years. These ‘lukast’ drugs are taken as tablets and are now used daily by several million asthmatics worldwide.
RESEARCH AIMS
Dr Sampson’s current research focus is on the reasons for over-production of leukotrienes in the airways of patients with asthma, including evidence that such over-production may have a genetic basis. His research aims are to help better understanding of the role that leukotrienes play in inflammation in the airway and other sites, which may in turn lead to improved treatment for asthma and related inflammatory diseases. These include allergies in the eye, skin and nasal airways, as well as cardiovascular disease such as coronary artery disease. Genetic studies may help identify individuals most likely to benefit from such treatments.
MEDIA INTEREST
Dr Sampson is a basic scientist working on human cells and tissues and regularly presents his findings at conferences in the UK and abroad. Media interest may arise from the use of anti-leukotriene drugs in asthma and potentially their extension to other inflammatory and cardiovascular diseases.
For further details and a list of recent publications
click
here
Contact: RCMB, Mailpoint 825, Level F South Block, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, SO16 6YD.
Tel: 023 8079 6778 Fax: 023 8070 4183
E-mail: aps@soton.ac.uk
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