DNA topoisomerase VI: an enzyme with important roles in plants and malaria parasites (MAXWELLJ16HICASE1)

DNA topoisomerase VI is an enzyme that was originally discovered in archaea but has more recently been found in plants (Arabidopsis thaliana) and malaria parasites (Plasmodium falciparum). Rather little is known about this enzyme but it has key roles in plant growth and development and in the plasmodium life cycle. We will characterise this enzyme, initially from the archeon Methanosarcina mazei, in particular focussing on its interaction with DNA using structural biology approaches. We will then characterise topo VI enzymes from A. thaliana and P. falciparum and investigate their role in plants and plasmodia. We will go on to develop inhibitors of the eukaryotic enzymes, specifically we aim to screen libraries of compounds and investigate the mechanism of action of compounds that are found to inhibit the enzyme.

This Industrial CASE project has been shortlisted for funding by the Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP). Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as part of the studentship competition on either the 16th March 2016.

The Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4 year research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers. Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.

For further information and to apply, please visit our website: http://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/the-programme/industrial-case