Dr Rachael Rigby
Senior LecturerMy research interests include regenerative medicine for the intestine and how the microbiota influence repair of the intestinal epithelium. The majority of my research has used the gastro-intestinal tract as an organ-system to research immunology, microbiology and cancer biology pathways. Our research focuses on intestinal epithelial cells and their interactions with immune cells, cytokines and bacteria. Specifically, I am interested in a group of proteins named Suppressors of Cytokine Signaling (SOCS) which are natural, endogenous inhibitors of inflammation and cancer.
My research interests lie in mechanisms of repair and renewal of the intestinal epithelium. During diseases such as colon cancer and IBD, epithelial repair homeostasis is disrupted. My research focuses on the interplay between luminal bacteria and the epithelium through a family of proteins termed suppressors of cytokine signalling (SOCS) which are important mediators of cancer and inflammation.
The translational nature of my research utilises several models including human tissue, human and mouse ex-vivo cell cultures, cancer cell lines and Drosophila.
Current research projects include:
How microflora sustain a healthy intestine through analysis of signaling pathways and immune cells - project funded by Bowel Cancer Research and is aimed at improving the outcome of stoma reversal surgery,
How epithelial cells generate tolerance and resistance to intestinal microflora and pathogens - project funded by the MRC
What microbial-related signaling events lead to the development of colon cancer
Investigating the impact of intestinal health on life span and behaviour
Whether infection-induced dysbiosis is linked to IBD or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) - funded by UHMBT
My work led to the discovery that a cell protein, SOCS3, is an inhibitor of tumorigenesis in the colon. I was lead author on both the original paper, published in Oncogene, and a review published in Gastroenterology. I also published that commensal flora impact on intestinal inflammation and fibrosis following surgical resection and I was also first author on one of the original reports that Dendritic Cell cytokine production is influenced by microbial products.
It is extremely important to me that my research has direct relevance to human health and disease.
<糖心Vlog>Current TeachingBIOL131 Introduction to Biomedical Science: Module ConvenorBIOL123 Infection and Immunity: Module Convenor BIOL125 Human Physiology: lecturer BIOL434 Emerging therapeutics in Immunology: lecturer
<糖心Vlog>PhD Supervision InterestsProjects available in my lab include investigating the role of intestinal microbiota, and associated signaling pathways, in diseases such as cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and neurological conditions. I'm also interested in how microbes train the immune response to protect or predispose individuals to disease and influence treatments or therapies, including recovery from surgery and immunotherapy. Please contact me on rachael.rigby@lancaster.ac.uk to discuss a specific area of study for PhD or Master by Research projects.
-
08/01/2026 → 10/10/2026
Research
-
08/01/2026 → 10/10/2026
Research
-
01/01/2022 → 31/12/2024
Research
-
01/07/2021 → 30/09/2021
Research
-
01/07/2018 → 30/09/2019
Research
School Engagement
School Engagement
Participation in workshop, seminar, course
School Engagement
Participation in workshop, seminar, course
School Engagement
School Engagement
Participation in conference -Mixed Audience
Types of Public engagement and outreach - Festival/Exhibition
Types of Public engagement and outreach - Festival/Exhibition
Hosting a School Visit
Examination
Festival/Exhibition/Concert
Examination
Examination
School Engagement
Public Lecture/ Debate/Seminar
Public Lecture/ Debate/Seminar
School Engagement
Participation in workshop, seminar, course
Participation in workshop, seminar, course
Editorial activity
Membership of committee
Public Lecture/ Debate/Seminar
School Engagement
School Engagement
Public Lecture/ Debate/Seminar
Public Lecture/ Debate/Seminar
Examination
Invited talk
Public Lecture/ Debate/Seminar
Public Lecture/ Debate/Seminar
Public Lecture/ Debate/Seminar
Membership of committee
Invited talk
Editorial activity
Membership of committee
Membership of committee
Membership of committee
- Microbes, Pathogens and Immunity