Determination of macrophage phenotype in sarcoidosis

To celebrate the University's research successes, the University of Hull is offering this project supported by a full-time UK/EU PhD Scholarship or International Fees Bursary. It is one of a cluster of projects available as part of a significant investment into clinical research in cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic medicine at Hull York Medical School's Hull campus.

Closing date: - 29th February 2016.
Studentships will start on 26th September 2016
Supervisor: Dr Simon Hart (contact [Email Address Removed])

Sarcoidosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown cause which commonly affects the lungs, lymph nodes, skin, and eyes. It causes significant morbidity and may shorten lifespan. Histologically the disease is characterized by granulomatous inflammation composed of monocytes/macrophages and lymphocytes, similar to that found in certain infectious diseases although no inciting microbe has been proven as a causative agent. This project will investigate the factors that promote the unique macrophage phenotype found in sarcoidosis, characterized by expression of the enzymes angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and vitamin D 1-alpha hydroxylase (CYP27B1).

The student will characterize the phenotype of monocyte/macrophage cells in culture in the laboratory. Primary monocyte-derived macrophages and cell lines cultured in vitro will be stimulated with cytokines and microbial molecule agonists of Toll-like receptors and NOD receptors. Dose dependent effects on expression of ACE and CYP27B1 will be determined by a variety of techniques including intracellular flow cytometry, Western blotting, and quantitative PCR. Once pathways responsible for the sarcoidosis macrophage phenotype in cultured cells are identified, evidence for pathway activation will be sought in primary blood monocytes and in pathology tissue sections from patients with sarcoidosis.

This PhD studentship will join a project supported by a recently awarded grant from the British Lung Foundation to study how monocytes regulate immune responses in the blood of patients with sarcoidosis.

To apply for this post please click on the Apply button below.

In order to qualify for this scholarship you will require an undergraduate degree with at least a 2.1, or equivalent in a relevant subject.
Full-time UK/EU PhD Scholarships will include fees at the ‘home/EU' student rate and maintenance (£14,057 in 2015/16) for three years, dependent on satisfactory progress.

Full-time International PhD Fee Bursaries will include full fees at the International student rate for three years, dependent on satisfactory progress.
PhD students at Hull York Medical School follow modules for research and transferable skills development and gain a Masters level Certificate, or Diploma, in Research Training, in addition to their research degree.

Successful applicants will be informed of the award as soon as possible and by 30th April 2016 at the latest.