Progress Update: Characterising Genetic Changes in Bile Ducts
Progress Update: Characterising Genetic Changes in Bile Ducts
Dr James Sun
We are pleased to share a significant update on the PSC Support-funded research project, 'Characterising genetic changes in bile ducts.' This work is a crucial step in fulfilling our goal to Unlock Understanding of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) by investigating the fundamental biological processes that cause the disease.
The research team has made excellent progress in setting up the foundational elements required for the study's core analysis:
- Sample Collection Complete: We are grateful to the PSC patients who agree to let researchers take samples for research purposes.
- 3D Model System Established: The complex three-dimensional (3D) model system, which will be essential for investigating how genetic changes affect bile duct cells, has been successfully set up and validated by the team.
- Critical Analysis Underway: The project is now moving into the key analytical phase. The team is currently working to conduct DNA sequencing to detect the precise genetic changes being investigated. The researchers are carefully assessing the most effective technique to use to ensure the data is meaningful and robust, reflecting a measured and scientific approach.
This work is part of our commitment to accelerating research to find the breakthroughs people with PSC so desperately need. If you have donated or fundraised for PSC. Thank you. These projects are only possible because of you.
Turning Ambition into Action in 2026:
Our Fortnight in Focus
At PSC Support, we want a world without PSC. We work tirelessly behind the scenes to drive research and improve lives. Here is a snapshot of what we've been up to:
Building Partnerships: We contributed a comprehensive chapter to a new medical textbook for nurses and allied health professionals, ensuring that the patient perspective is integrated into clinical education.
Building Partnerships: We participated in a planning meeting for the update of national clinical guidelines for PSC.
Building Partnerships: We prepared strategic questions for an upcoming international forum titled “Putting Patients First: From Research to Treatment.”
Organisational Excellence: We updated our web details to make it less likely information from us sent by email ends up in your spam folders.
Progressing Research: We are collaborating with European partners to develop a simplified research registry for pregnancy outcomes, building the evidence base needed to improve medical guidance for women with PSC.
Progressing Research: We completed a formal submission to the Scottish Medicines Consortium to advocate for the value of a potential new treatment for PSC patients.
Progressing Research: We reviewed the participant information for a new academic clinical trial to ensure it is clear and accessible for patients.