"By better understanding clot formation, we hope to find new ways to control the process, and pave the way for new treatments to prevent dangerous localised blood clotting in the body." 7/7

Reflecting on the recognition, Dr El-Mansi said:

"I am delighted to be recognised in the British Heart Foundation’s Reflections of Research competition with an image of blood vessel repair that is almost cinematic." 6/7

The fiery blaze (red) shows the generation of a protein called fibrin, which holds the clot together. Clotting is essential for the body to heal itself, but blood clots can also cause heart attacks and strokes. 5/7

The damage triggers the release of a protein called von Willebrand factor (blue). This draws in sticky cells called platelets (green), and attach to the site of injury to stop bleeding and prevent excessive blood loss. 4/7

Dr El-Mansi was recognised for his image titled ‘A Portrait of a Fiery Blood Clot’. The image captures the spectacular moment that a blood vessel is hit with a laser in the lab, and immediately starts the clotting process to repair itself. 3/7

Combining the beauty and mystery of art and science, the annual competition challenges researchers to put forward the most awe-inspiring images taken as part of their research into cardiovascular health and disease. 2/7

Prof. Jesmond Dalli from @qmul.bsky.social said: "By uniting leading scientists & partners across Europe, we’re creating a unique platform to accelerate discovery — advancing science that restores health rather than just suppressing disease."

Learn more: www.qmul.ac.uk/whri/news-an...

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Funded through a highly competitive European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) grant, the network unites researchers, clinicians, industry partners & patient reps across Europe and beyond, building a collaborative platform to transform how we understand & treat inflammation. 2/3