In this video, Professor of Iron Biology Hal Drakesmith and his team at the MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine discuss their research into the importance of iron in cellular mechanisms, particularly during immune responses. Their research spans investigations into how iron is absorbed and used by cells, to an international trial testing whether treating anaemia with iron supplements can benefit vaccine response during pregnancy.
Through a collaboration with Associate Professor Jon Wade and Phil Holdship at the Department of Earth Sciences, they are developing a method to quantify iron atoms in cells at the attogram scale, utilising cutting-edge mass spectrometry. They have been working with researchers in the Department of Biology to increase iron levels in plants as a food source, and with Professor Michael Zimmermann to understand how iron is absorbed through the human gut.
Learn more about the Drakesmith Group.
Learn more about the Department of Earth Sciences
Learn more about the Department of Biology.