Mr. Percival studies how various biological and environmental factors contribute to the risk of cancer and the effectiveness of lifesaving training. His research on breast cancer explores how the stiffness of surrounding tissue can hinder cells in breaking down harmful substances, potentially leading to DNA damage and increased cancer risk. Additionally, he investigates how well individuals maintain Basic Life Support (BLS) skills over time, ensuring that people are prepared to respond effectively during cardiac emergencies. Understanding these areas helps both patients at risk for cancer and bystanders in emergency situations.
Key findings
Increased tissue stiffness led to reduced enzyme activity, causing higher levels of reactive aldehydes and increased DNA damage in breast cells.
Understanding of BLS skill retention is crucial, as skills tend to decay over time, impacting the readiness of bystanders to assist in emergencies.
The N-terminal part of the v-rel protein is essential for its full transforming activity, providing insights into cancer mechanisms derived from viral influences.
Frequently asked questions
Does Mr. Percival study breast cancer?
Yes, he researches how tissue stiffness impacts breast cells and their likelihood of developing cancer.
What treatments has Mr. Percival researched?
While he primarily focuses on risk factors for cancer and emergency response, his findings can inform strategies for cancer prevention and training improvements.
Is Mr. Percival's work relevant to people at risk for cardiac arrest?
Yes, his research on BLS skill retention aims to enhance how effectively bystanders can assist during cardiac emergencies.
Publications in plain English
Matrix stiffness drives alterations in aldehyde metabolism, inducing DNA damage and transformation.
2025
Scientific reports
Jones M, Percival H, Hales A, Wood A, Sun H +10 more
Plain English This study examined how the stiffness of the surrounding tissue (extracellular matrix) affects breast cells and their risk of turning cancerous. Researchers found that when the tissue is stiffer, it causes breast cells to struggle in breaking down harmful substances called reactive aldehydes, leading to DNA damage and a higher chance of cancer development. Specifically, the study showed that these stiff conditions reduced the activity of important enzymes, resulting in increased reactive aldehyde levels and subsequent genomic harm.
Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for breast cancer and their doctors by providing insight into how tissue stiffness may influence cancer development.
Skill decay following Basic Life Support training: a systematic review protocol.
2021
BMJ open
Stanley B, Burton T, Percival H, Beesley E, Coffin N +3 more
Plain English This study looks at how well people remember their Basic Life Support (BLS) skills after being trained. It finds that skills tend to decline over time, though specific details about how long this takes or which skills are affected will be revealed after analyzing multiple research articles. Understanding this decay is crucial because it helps improve training programs, ensuring more people can effectively help in emergencies, ultimately leading to better survival rates for cardiac arrest victims.
Who this helps: This helps patients who suffer cardiac arrests and the bystanders who want to assist them.
The N-terminal env-derived amino acids of v-rel are required for full transforming activity.
1990
Virology
Garson K, Percival H, Kang CY
Plain English This study focused on a gene called v-rel from a virus that can transform chicken spleen and bone marrow cells. Researchers found that the N-terminal part of the v-rel protein is crucial for its ability to cause this transformation, while the C-terminal portion is less critical, as up to 100 of those amino acids could be removed without affecting its function. Understanding how these different parts of the protein work helps scientists learn more about cancer development.
Who this helps: This helps researchers studying cancer and viruses.