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PhD Research at the Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge

Dr. Paramothayan’s research for her doctorate entailed investigating the genesis of atherosclerosis:

'Endothelial Injury and Healing in Vitro'

The aims of the study were to investigate the effects of denuding injury and hypercholesterolaemia on the interaction between endothelial cells and macrophages from rabbits. The investigations were carried out using a newly developed organ culture system. The techniques used include animal handling and surgery, tissue and organ culture, histology, microscopy (scanning and transmission electron microscopy), histochemistry and the radiolabelling of cells. The results of the study show that injury to the endothelium and hypercholesterolaemia increase the adhesion of macrophages to the endothelium in vitro. The results may have important implications for the way in which atherosclerotic plaques originate. During her years in research she attended various national and international meetings and made regular presentations.

Clinical Research

Whilst at the Brompton, she initiated and conducted a prospective study to look at the effect of infection and inflammation on a variety of haematological parameters in patients with cystic fibrosis.

She also conducted a retrospective study using the extensive database available to look at the incidence of epilepsy in cystic fibrosis. The authors concluded that epilepsy was four times commoner in patients with cystic fibrosis than in the general population. Further studies are required to ascertain why.

At St. Helier University Hospital she conducted a study looking at the differentiation of transudates and exudates in pleural fluid.

Systematic reviews

Dr. Paramothayan is a reviewer for the Cochrane Airways Group based at St. George's Hospital Medical School and has received training in conducting systematic reviews. She has completed three Cochrane meta-analyses on Pulmonary Sarcoidosis and Pulmonary Hypertension. These have been peer-reviewed and published in the Cochrane Library (www.cochrane.co.uk).These reviews have also been presented at International meetings.She has been a reviewer for several journals, including CHEST and RESPIRATORY MEDICINE.

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