Insights into eye disease: understanding the molecular basis of age-related macular degeneration

Dysregulation of innate immunity has been implicated as playing a key role in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – a major form of blindness in the industrialised world (see [1-5]). Loss of central vision results from the destruction of the macula, which is preceded by the accumulation of particulate matter within this central region of the retina; this is associated with local inflammation and tissue damage [4]. A common polymorphism (Y402H) in the gene encoding human complement factor H (CFH) has been identified as a major risk factor for AMD. CFH is an important regulator of the complement system (part of innate immunity) where it is thought to localise on host tissues (and thus suppress complement activation) via its binding to negatively charged sugar molecules known as GAGs [1-5]. In our recent work we have found that the Y402H polymorphism has a profound affect on the GAG-binding specificity of CFH [1-3]. This change in GAG recognition affects the localisation of the disease-associated form of CFH in the human eye [2,3] and thus likely contributes directly to the pathogenesis of AMD (i.e. due to impaired immune regulation) [4]. We have also discovered that there is a large reduction in the amount of GAG (and thus binding sites for CFH) within the human eye as a consequence of normal aging [5]; this perhaps explains why AMD only affects people late in life. Further research is now needed to better understand the initiation/progression of AMD so as to facilitate the design of novel treatments for this devastating disease.

This project will form part of an on-going programme of work in Professor Day’s lab (in collaboration with Professor Paul Bishop, University of Manchester) aimed at understanding the molecular basis of AMD. This research project may include fluorescent microscopy, cell biology, molecular biology and protein biochemistry.

Entry Requirements

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a related area/subject. Candidates with previous laboratory experience, particularly in cell culture and molecular biology, are particularly encouraged to apply.

How To Apply

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select PhD Genetics

For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/”

For international students we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences. For more information please visit http://www.internationalphd.manchester.ac.uk