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Scope 36 - Crystal clear therapies for gout

1 June 2008

Willy-John Martin, a talented young PhD student in the Arthritis Group headed by Dr Jacquie Harper, and one of only eight recipients (out of over 150 applicants) of a M?ori Education Professions Scholarship in 2007, is looking to advance our understanding of the immune processes that give rise to gouty arthritis.  

Gout is caused by the formation of crystals in the joints, resulting in intense pain, swelling and reddening of the skin.

In New Zealand the prevalence of gout is twice that observed internationally and is three times more widespread in Maori and Pacific Island populations. Willy-John's research will be vital for the development of new therapies for the treatment of this incredibly painful disease.