Epigenetic

This study aims to better understand 3 crucial questions: 1. Why do some patients experience more severe complications after heart surgery than others? 2. Are there markers on our genetic makeup (called epigenetic modifications) that can predict complications after major surgery? 3. How do epigenetic modifications lead to overactive inflammation that causes harm to patients after heart surgery? Over 270,000 patients undergo major surgery in Scotland each year. Major surgery is associated with increased risk of complications, particularly in older patients with multiple health conditions. Complications are a leading cause of death, delayed recovery, long-term illness and increased healthcare cost to the NHS. Significant complications occur in up to 57% of patients after heart surgery. In response to major surgery, the body stimulates an inflammatory response as part of a complex repair mechanism, however, in some cases inflammation can become exaggerated, becoming harmful and contributing to the development of complications. The investigators believe that a patient's risk of overactive inflammation, which can lead to complications after surgery, is heavily influenced by a patient-specific system of biological markers, layered upon their DNA; a scientific field known as epigenetics. Where a patient's DNA (their 'genetics') may be considered as an instruction manual for each cell's molecular processes, these 'epigenetic' markers work as if someone has highlighted sections of the manual to be read (and actioned). The pattern of these markers on immune system cells can therefore dictate the extent of the inflammatory response, especially after a major insult such as surgery. While the DNA itself cannot be modified, epigenetic markers can be modified, through strategies including diet, exercise, and medication. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether the modifiable epigenetic code of key immune-system cells dictates the extent of post-operative inflammation, contributing to organ damage and complications. With patients' permission, the investigators will: 1. Obtain blood samples before and after major heart surgery, to test for epigenetic markers and inflammation. 2. Observe patients after surgery and collect routine data from laboratory tests and patient observations which assess for organ dysfunction and inflammation. 3. Conduct patient questionnaires before and after surgery to assess physical fitness and patient-centred quality of life measures. 4. Analyse patterns between patients who have severe organ dysfunction after surgery and those patients who have minimal organ dysfunction after similar surgery, to better understand which patients are at greatest risk, according to their epigenetic makeup. This study may improve understanding of which patients are likely to suffer organ damage and complications after major surgery, and which patients may have a protective epigenetic makeup which reduces complications. With this knowledge, the investigators aim is that future patients could receive personalised treatment plans before surgery, to modify their epigenetic makeup, reduce harm from complications and improve outcomes for patients. The investigators are not testing any new treatments in this study.

Central nervous system tumours are the most common solid tumours and the leading cause of cancer mortality in children, with high biological and prognostic heterogeneity. Despite advances in the 2021 WHO molecular classifications, treatment options remain limited and often ineffective in high-grade tumours. New third-generation sequencing technologies and three-dimensional models derived from patient tumours offer promising tools for more comprehensive genomic characterisation and preclinical evaluation of drug responses. However, the lack of integrated preclinical studies remains a limitation, necessitating coordinated projects to develop personalised therapeutic strategies. The study aims to investigate the genetic and biological characteristics of paediatric brain tumours. To this end, tumour tissue samples taken during planned surgery and peripheral blood samples will be analysed. Advanced genetic analyses will be performed on these materials to identify tumour alterations and the patient's genetic characteristics. In addition, experimental in vitro models derived from the tumour will be developed to evaluate the response to different chemotherapy drugs. The information obtained will be used to better understand the mechanisms of tumour growth and resistance and to promote the future development of more targeted and personalised therapies.

Biomarker-based nutrition has demonstrated superior efficacy compared to population-level approaches in improving health outcomes. Biofrequency analysis, a non-invasive technique based on the detection of electromagnetic vibrational patterns in hair follicles, offers a promising avenue for rapid functional assessment of nutritional status and epigenetic signals without reliance on blood or urine sampling. First, to evaluate the effect of a 90-day biofrequency-guided nutritional intervention on functional epigenetic status, as reflected in changes in the optimization report generated by the S-Drive system; second, to assess changes in adherence to the Mediterranean diet, anthropometric indicators, movement behaviors, and psychological well-being. Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, adults from a Sport Team from Region of Murcia (Spain) will be allocated to an experimental group receiving individualized lifestyle recommendations based on S-Drive biofrequency analysis and to a control group with no intervention. Participants in the experimental arm will apply tailored dietary guidance over 90 days. Conclusion: This study will generate foundational evidence on the utility of biofrequency technology for precision nutrition. If positive, the findings may inform scalable, low-risk strategies for personalized dietary interventions in preventive and community health settings.

This study is being conducted to better understand how pancreatic cancer behaves during treatment and how we can improve methods for monitoring disease progression. The research aims to determine whether small molecules present in the blood, called miRNAs, can help doctors assess whether the treatment is working or needs adjustment. With this, we hope to make cancer monitoring less invasive and more precise, allowing patients to receive more personalized and effective treatments.