Organ-on-a-Chip Technology

Prof Knight is actively involved in the development of organ-on-a-chip technology. These microfluidic models have the potential to transform fundamental biomedical research and the development and testing of new medical products and pharamaceuticals. Prof Knight is the Director of the QM+Emulate Organs-on-chips Centre and works on development of new models including cartilage, synovium, bone, tendon, kidney and breast cancer as well as underpinning technology.

Mechanotherapy (Ciliotherapy) 

Prof Knight's group are interested in structure-function relationships in primary cilia. Consequently we are exploring the potential for small molecule or biomaterial regulation of cilia structure and trafficking as a means of controlling signalling pathways important in the pathogenesis of diseases such as osteoarthritis, inflammation, cancer and obesity and the rare genetic disorder, alkaptonuria and Jeune syndrome. This overlaps with work investigating the potential therapeutic benefits of manipulating cellular mechanosignalling.

Implantable Devices

Prof Knight has been involved in biomaterials research supporting the development of various implantable devices ranging from urological stents  to orthopaedic implants for cartilage and meniscal repair. 

Public Engagement - promoting Bioengineering and Mechanobiology

Prof Knight has been involved in numerous public engagement activities, particular those aimed at promoting bioengineering to school children. Activities include interactives at the Centre of the Cell, a programme of science animation classs funded by the EPSRC, activities at the Big Bang and other science festivals and appearances on TV documentaries and school programmes.