NF2 BioSolutions funded PhD student Reygn Done, from of our brain tumour and inflammation themes, reflects on his first year in NF2 research…

As 2025 draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on the journey of my first full year as a PhD candidate – a year full of learning, discovery and wonderful connections. NF2BioSolutions UK has made all this possible and I’m delighted to share a festive update on the progress we have made thus far.

One of the highlights of this year was the ability to meet the charity team in person for the first time at awareness events. Being part of these gatherings really brought home the warmth and determination of the NF2 community, and it was inspiring to not only share the work being undertaken by the NF2 research team at Manchester but also hear the stories of those with NF2-SWN.

My research this year has focussed particularly on understanding how the immune system interacts with Vestibular Schwannomas (VS), especially the different types of T-cells that find their way into these tumours. By analysing publicly available datasets, I’ve begun to uncover distinct ‘flavours’ of T-cells within VS, which has already pointed towards some exciting potential therapeutic avenues.

Back in the lab, I’ve been using imaging modalities to pinpoint where specific T-cells sit within human VS tissue – a bit like creating a festive map of whos there! This work will expand in the new year as we build a clearer, more detailed picture of how these immune cells shape tumour behaviour.

Perhaps the biggest milestone of this year has been the successful establishment of the VS animal model here in Manchester. Now that is up and running, we can start exploring the tumours immune landscape in depth and begin testing T-cell-targeted treatments. This sets the next stage for an incredibly exciting year ahead.

Overall, this first year has been about laying strong foundations: optimising tools, understanding tumour composition and setting everything in place for the therapeutic studies to come. With these building blocks now firmly established, 2026 promises to be full of meaningful progress.

Thank you so much for the continued support of NF2BioSolutions – it truly makes a world of difference.
Wishing everyone a warm, peaceful and loving festive season and a bright start to the new year!

Reygn

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