Hector (Ilias) Epanomeritakis

PhD thesis: The role of CCL2 in bone and cartilage repair

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterised by inflammation, joint deformity and disability. Despite posing significant burdens for patients and healthcare systems, no therapy reverses the disease.

My project investigates a new strategy to regenerate bone and cartilage. The inflammation observed in OA is mediated by protein messengers called chemokines, which attract immune cells to the joint. I plan to establish the role of one particular chemokine, CCL2, in bone and cartilage repair. Cartilage cells release CCL2 after injury which in turn recruits more immune cells, contributing to chronic inflammation. However, CCL2 may also have a direct effect on skeletal cells themselves, leading to the synthesis of new bone and cartilage as inflammation lessens.

My project will clarify the mechanisms behind skeletal repair following CCL2 exposure. The benefit of doing so is identifying cells that could be targeted therapeutically whilst also offering new strategies for manufacturing cell therapies for delivery to patients.

Who or what inspired you to pursue your research interests?

After graduating with Distinction from the University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, I began my postgraduate medical training by completing the Academic Foundation Programme at Cambridge University Hospitals. During this time, I gained research experience at the Division of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery laboratory, studying the response of bone and cartilage cells to injury and their mechanisms of repair. This exciting experience inspired me to pursue a PhD, allowing me to expand on my project with a focus on potential translation of my findings into future therapies for patients suffering from osteoarthritis.