LICAMM Vascular Dysregulation and Thrombotic Risk in Multiple Myeloma

This project addresses an underexplored area of oncology and cardiovascular health by investigating how immunomodulatory imide drugs (IMiDs), used in multiple myeloma (MM) therapy, contribute to thrombosis. MM patients are at elevated thrombotic risk, and IMiD therapy, despite improving survival, exacerbates this risk.

<p>With increases in life span, have come increased incidence of diseases associated with ageing including cancer and MM. Successes with new treatment strategies, has substantially increased the life expectancy for individuals but has also seen a dramatic increase in the number of patients at risk of cardiovascular events. MM is a plasma cell malignancy prevalent in older adults and associated with a prothrombotic state. IMiD therapy (e.g., lenalidomide, pomalidomide) enhance survival but further increase thrombotic risk. IMiDs modulate the E3 ligase Cereblon, altering protein degradation pathways, yet their vascular effects remain poorly understood. Thrombosis, involves a complex interaction between multiple cell types, including endothelial cells, leukocytes and platelets. In diseases associated with increased risk of thrombosis, endothelial dysfunction, leukocyte recruitment and platelet hyperreactivity are prominent features. This project aims to investigate how IMiD treatment affects endothelial cells (ECs), and their interaction with platelets, and leukocytes, and the role this plays in exacerbating thrombosis. Understanding these mechanisms is essential to mitigate cardiovascular complications experienced by cancer patients.</p> <h5>References</h5> <ol> <li>Multiple myeloma and its treatment contribute to increased platelet reactivity. Platelets. 2023 Dec;34(1):2264940 </li> <li>The TRIPLE Score: Platelet GPVI and CD36 Expression Predict a Prothrombotic Phenotype. Letter. Circulation Research. 2025 Feb 14;136(4):439-441.</li> </ol>

<p>Please note these are not standalone projects and applicants must apply to the PhD academy directly.</p> <p>Applications can be made at any time. You should complete an <a href="https://medicinehealth.leeds.ac.uk/faculty-graduate-school/doc/apply-2">online application form</a> and attach the following documentation to support your application. </p> <ul> <li>a full academic CV</li> <li>degree certificate and transcripts of marks (or marks so far if still studying)</li> <li>Evidence that you meet the programme’s minimum English language requirements (if applicable, see requirement below)</li> <li>Evidence of funding to support your studies</li> </ul> <p>To help us identify that you are applying for this project please ensure you provide the following information on your application form;</p> <ul> <li>Select PhD in Medicine, Health & Human Disease as your planned programme of study</li> <li>Give the full project title and name the supervisors listed in this advert</li> </ul>

A degree in biological sciences, dentistry, medicine, midwifery, nursing, psychology or a good honours degree in a subject relevant to the research topic. A Masters degree in a relevant subject may also be required in some areas of the Faculty.

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence that their English language is sufficient to meet the specific demands of their study. The minimum requirements for this programme in IELTS and TOEFL tests are: • British Council IELTS - score of 7.0 overall, with no element less than 6.5 • Internet Based TOEFL - overall score of 95 with not less than 22 in listening, 22 in reading, 24 in speaking and 22 in writing.

<p>For further information please contact the Faculty Admissions Team:<br /> e:<a href="mailto:fmhpgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk">fmhpgradmissions@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>