Dr Ioannis Kourtzelis explores efferocytosis and the pathophysiology of inflammatory diseases and cancer in this Science Network Event.

The concepts of inflammation and cancer will be discussed in the context of immune regulation. Emphasis will be given in the regulation of the recognition and uptake of dying cells by the professional eaters ‘macrophages’ through the process of efferocytosis. Of interest, ageing affects the activity of efferocytosis and this has effects on the pathophysiology of inflammatory diseases and cancer. We will provide examples linking the process of efferocytosis to disease promotion or clearance.

About the speaker

Dr Ioannis Kourtzelis is a Lecturer in Immunology at Hull York Medical School of the University of York. His research interests focus on the study of mechanisms that orchestrate the onset and resolution of sterile and pathogen-induced inflammation.

A talk about the importance of fungi including their evolution, symbiotic relationship with plants, their value as a food, and their medicinal uses. We will cover: 

• What are Fungi? 

• How did they evolve

• Their importance to the environment

• Medicinal uses of fungi

• Fungi as a food source

• The role of the Citizen scientist in studying them

About the speaker:

Dr Heyes was for some 10 years chair of Knole u3a Science Group. He has a science and technology background and after retirement from the Civil Service, was appointed a Senior Fellow at King’s College, London. Knole u3a is based in Sevenoaks, Kent, and has held meetings on a wide range of science and technology topics. Many of the talks are researched and presented by members of Knole, as well as invited speakers from UK universities, research organisations, local and national companies. Dr Heyes is the Volunteer Botantist at Haysden Country Park near Tonbridge, Kent and has undertaken a detailed survey of both the flora and fungi there.