Studying integration of apoptotic cell clearance and macrophage migration dynamically in vivo

Iwan's research aims to understand how apoptotic cells influence macrophage behaviour and motility, both via intercellular signalling and events post-engulfment. To achieve this his lab is taking a genetic approach, studying a highly motile population of macrophages called hemocytes, which are found within fruit fly embryos. In identifying novel regulatory mechanisms, Iwan aims to provide new targets to manipulate macrophage behaviour in the wide range of human diseases in which they contribute to disease progression, such as cancer, atherosclerosis and chronic inflammation.