A data analysis approach to cell-to-cell communication (CCC) in ageing and disease

Chapter 2 begins by assessing how ageing alters CCC dynamics, establishing the methodological foundation that will be applied in Chapter 4. Chapter 3 then characterises normal CCC mechanisms within neurovascular units of both the brain and retina, providing a baseline understanding of their physiological roles to better interpret pathological changes observed later.

Building upon the insights from Chapters 2 and 3, Chapter 4 integrates multiple datasets encompassing both ageing and age-related diseases to identify potential risk factors within CCC that may drive the transition from healthy ageing to pathological conditions, offering insights into early disease mechanisms and potential intervention targets. Finally, Chapter 5 shifts focus from molecular mechanisms to spatial organization, examining how CCC is reflected through changes in spatial relationships in a type 1 diabete mouse model, complementing the molecular analyses presented in Chapters 2 through 4.<br><br><i>Thesis is embargoed until 31 December 2028.</i>