Mitochondrial calcium plays a key role in a wide array of cellular homeostatic processes and has been linked to causing neurodegeneration [1]. The research in our lab focusses on understanding the causes of various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s and Huntington’s Disease, to identify potential therapeutic interventions. We take a multi-disciplinary approach to combine molecular cell biological techniques with the powerful genetic model, Drosophila.
We have developed a genetic toolkit to manipulate mitochondrial calcium flux in Drosophila [2]. Using these, we have found that reducing mitochondrial calcium uptake is beneficial in a range of neurodegenerative disease models [3]. This project will further characterise this interaction as a potential therapeutic avenue, and to understand the molecular basis behind the sensitivity of these disease conditions to mitochondrial calcium.
The experimental aims will encompass a wide range of techniques including Drosophila genetics, live-imaging techniques to analyse mitochondrial calcium dynamics, as well as behavioural and neuro-functional assays. Molecular techniques will also be employed to analyse cellular changes, in particular to the metabolic pathways and autophagy, that underpin the consequences of dysregulated mitochondrial calcium handling. Insight into these pathogenic and homeostatic mechanisms will give us a greater understanding of the causes of these diseases and illuminate potential therapeutic avenues.
Competitive applicants will have a high degree classification from a leading university, with excellent knowledge and experience within the fields of cell biology, genetics and the use of small model organisms in modelling human disease. They will also have substantial lab experience in molecular, cell biology and/or genetic techniques.
Keywords
General: Mitochondria, Calcium, Neurodegeneration
More specific: Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Drosophila, in vivo, autophagy
Research Group: https://www.mrc-mbu.cam.ac.uk/research-groups/whitworth-group