RNA Bioscience for Participatory Alopecia Research (RNA-PAR)

Innovating alopecia care

Our collaborative initiative is dedicated to integrating patient perspectives into the development and evaluation of RNA-based treatments for alopecia. By involving patients directly in our research, we aim to create more effective, holistic interventions that address the real needs of those affected by alopecia.

Aims and objectives

  • Patient integration: Ensure patient voices are central to the development of RNA-based alopecia treatments.
  • Workshops: Conduct knowledge exchange workshops to educate and gather insights from patients.
  • Questionnaire design: Collaborate with patients to create a questionnaire that captures their views on RNA bioscience.
  • Lab engagement: Involve patients in hands-on lab sessions to foster a deeper understanding of the research process.
  • Research proposal: Work together on a research proposal addressing key alopecia and RNA-related questions.
  • Comprehensive report: Collaboratively produce a detailed report highlighting the benefits of patient involvement in RNA research.

Key outcomes

  • Co-created materials: Develop posters and questionnaires with patient input.
  • Active participation: Engage patients in laboratory activities to enhance their understanding and involvement.
  • Collaborative proposal: Submit a joint grant proposal to secure funding for further research.
  • Final report: Compile a comprehensive, collaborative report detailing the project’s findings and impact.

Legacy

  • Best practices: Establish guidelines and templates for participatory action research at LJMU.
  • Dissemination: Share our findings widely using a variety of methods, for example social media, websites, talks and academic publications to reach a wider audience.

This project is supported by Research England Participatory Research funding, in partnership with Alopecia UK.