Exploiting inflammation induced DNA damage response to treat atherosclerosis.

Excess inflammation is vessel walls is now proven to be causal in the development and progression of coronary artery disease. Inflammation is caused by short lived reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen species which damage DNA in vascular cells causing base modifications and breaks. in addition, pro-inflammatory cytokines e.g. interleukin-1 can enhance DNA damage by reducing the efficiency of the repair enzymes. The relationship between inflammation and DNA repair is therefore complex and understudied in vascular cells. This project led by DNA repair and atherosclerosis experts will study if endothelial cell responses to excess unrepaired DNA damage drive atherosclerosis. It will also discover if inhibiting the DNA damage response will inhibit complex feedback loops that can occur and thus reduce atherosclerosis. Interventions with certain types of DNA damage inhibitors used in cancer may be useful adjuncts to lipid lowering in patients with coronary artery disease.

Entry Requirements:

Candidates must have a first or upper second class honors degree or significant research experience. (add any additional requirements here)

How to apply:

Please complete a University Postgraduate Research Application form available here: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying

Please clearly state the prospective main supervisor in the respective box and select 'Infection, Immunity & Cardiovascular Disease' as the department.

Enquiries:

Interested candidates should in the first instance contact Prof Sheila Francis, [Email Address Removed]

Closing date - Wednesday 26th January 2022 at 5pm.