Background:
Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to a heightened risk of infection (e.g., pneumonia, urinary tract and wound infections). While infections are one of the leading causes of mortality in this population, they are also associated with reduced health-related quality of life and impaired rehabilitation. Therefore, it is important to investigate therapeutic interventions for improving immune function and resistance to infection.
Single sessions of lower-body exercise cause an influx and then redistribution of immune cells from peripheral blood towards sites of potential infection (e.g., gut and lungs). With regular whole-body training, persistent redeployment of immune cells in this manner is believed to enhance immunity and in turn reduce the risk of common infections. However, it remains to be determined whether upper-body exercise (the primary means of exercise for individuals with motor-paralysis) elicits similar acute responses as lower-body exercise (Study 1). Additionally, maladaptive changes following SCI results in a loss of autonomic control of the adrenal gland, which result in reductions in effective exercise-induced immune responses. Emerging evidence suggests that non-invasive spinal cord stimulation can restore autonomic control of peripheral vasculature (e.g., raising blood pressure) and it remains to be determined if this can ‘normalise’ exercise-induced immune responses in this population (Study 2). Lastly, individuals with SCI exhibit high levels of physical inactivity, and the impact of longer-term exercise training on immune system health remains to be elucidated (Study 3).
Methodology and techniques to be employed:
This project draws on the complimentary expertise of the supervisory team (Exercise Physiologist and Exercise immunologists) and existing infrastructure (e.g., the newly established Movewell Centre in Gisbert Kapp at the University of Birmingham). The student will deliver cardiopulmonary exercise tests with the concurrent monitoring of breath-by-breath expired gases and cardiovascular variables, with hemodynamic outcomes assessed during recovery. Venous blood samples will be collected for isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and plasma. Immune cell counts will be determined by automated haematology and flow cytometry analysis, and plasma catecholamines and cytokines via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Through embedded training with our external partner, Neurokinex (provider of activity-based neurorehabilitation and wellness programmes for adults living with partial or complete paralysis), the student will gain a unique experience of delivering multi-modal therapeutic exercise interventions in this clinical population, before developing, delivering and testing the effectiveness of such an intervention. Multiple training and development opportunities will also be provided for the successful applicant.
How to apply:
Applications should be directed to Dr. Tom Nightingale ([Email Address Removed]). To apply, please send:
- Completed application form (see Application link below)
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Names and contact details of two referees
Nominated candidates will be interviewed on Thursday June 22 or Friday June 23. This is a 3.5-year project, commencing in September 2023. Please also contact Dr. Nightingale with any informal enquiries regarding this studentship.
We are looking for a highly talented and dedicated PhD student with a 1st class or 2:1 degree in the field of immunology, neurosciences, biomedical sciences or exercise physiology. An MSc degree in a relevant area is desirable though not necessary. Previous experience working with individuals with a spinal cord injury and/or wet-lab skills would be an asset.
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