Characterisation and validation of the pig as a preclinical model to study musculoskeletal ageing

Ageing is typically associated with the loss of skeletal muscle mass (sarcopenia) and the development of osteoarthritis, both of which can have devastating consequences on the independence, mobility, and quality-of-life of affected individuals. Surprisingly, despite many reports demonstrating clear fundamental differences in skeletal muscle metabolism between humans and small-animals, research utilising rodent models continues to dominate the musculoskeletal ageing field. This current lack of a predictable musculoskeletal ageing animal model that accurately reflects the metabolic behaviour of humans is having a meaningful impact on our ability to perform translational research concerned with musculoskeletal ageing.

However, there is increasing recognition that the pig may represent an improved model of human chronic disease and thus, be a suitable model in which to perform investigative research. Our intention therefore is to develop a pig model of musculoskeletal ageing. Because of the high prevalence of osteochrondrosis and osteoarthritis in commercial pig breeds, the model also represents an excellent opportunity for the study of degenerative joint disease and the subsequent impact on skeletal muscle.

The studentship will aim to validate the pig as a model of musculoskeletal ageing and osteoarthritis, and will involve a wide range of techniques including: qRT-PCR, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, ELISA, enzyme assays, immunohistochemistry, and imaging techniques (e.g. CT-scanning). The student will be primarily based at the Sutton Bonington Campus of the University of Nottingham under the supervision of Dr Andrew Murton, where world-class large-animal research facilities exist. The student will also be co-supervised by Dr Simon Jones of the University of Birmingham, who has significant expertise in the molecular basis of osteoarthritis.

The PhD is funded by the Medical Research Council-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, which is held jointly by the University of Birmingham and The University of Nottingham. The Centre’s mission is to bring together first rate scientists, clinicians and industrial partners to improve the understanding of age-related musculoskeletal deterioration, building a world-leading research platform capable of generating novel and clinically testable approaches to healthier musculoskeletal ageing.

For informal enquiries regarding the project please contact Dr Andrew Murton ([Email Address Removed]). To apply please submit your CV together with a covering letter/e-mail.

Funding Notes:
The studentship provides a stipend at normal UK Research Council rates of £13,726 per annum and tuition fees for 4 years. Due to funding restrictions, the studentship is only available to UK students or EU nationals who have been resident in the UK for the past 3 years prior to application.

Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is selected.