Metabolic modulation of microglial homeostasis and immune response

Microglia are a specialised immune cell found in the central nervous system. They are responsible for maintaining brain homeostasis and play an important role in the early onset and development of neuroinflammatory disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. Recent research has implicated microglial dysregulation, associated with alteration of microglial metabolic profile, as contributing to immune dysfunction and homeostatic maintenance.  

A greater understanding of the regulators governing microglial metabolism can provide valuable insights into the pathophysiology of neuroinflammation. This provides the potential to target specific metabolic pathways in microglia, thus offering novel strategies to regulating microglial function. 

This project builds on current research in the laboratory examining how metabolic substrates impact on the immune function of microglial cells. Research will incorporate the utilization of metabolic inhibitors to identify metabolic targets associated with microglial immune function modulation. Key methodologies employed will include cell culture techniques, functional cell assays, biochemical analysis and gene/protein analysis.   

The PhD student will join an active and supportive postgraduate community and will be jointly supervised by Dr Michael Stolinski (m.stolinski@kingston.ac.uk) and Dr Francesca Mackenzie. (f.mackenzie@kingston.ac.uk) in the Faculty of Health, Science, Social Care and Education (HSSCE).  

Applicants should have or expect to gain at least an Upper Second (2i) class degree in a relevant field (e.g. Biochemistry, Biological Science, Genetics), and an interest in neurobiology. Laboratory experience or an MScR/MRes is desirable, although specific training will be given.  

This PhD project is self-funded, part-time PhD study can be discussed.