Studying the role of the sirtuin family in the treatment of IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome can affect over 20% of the general population, with patients suffering a range of symptoms including stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. Episodes can last days, weeks or even months at a time.

Currently, there is no cure for IBS and treatment options aim to reduce symptoms. These treatments include dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and might include prescription medications. Unfortunately, there is no golden rule and people react differently to each modification.

Sirtuins (SIRT) regulate many key processes in cells, including their metabolism, health & death. This family is key in modulating inflammation, cancer, and aging. In this project we are studying the selective modulation of SIRT in an intestinal model and their effect on reducing the symptoms of IBS. 

In this cell / molecular biology project, we will expand our knowledge on the modulation of the SIRT family with the aim of identifying pathways and producing new therapies. This is an exciting opportunity to identify new targets, we are looking to recruit a PhD student with a relevant biological, biochemistry, biomedical, chemical, pharmacy, pharmacology or science background to study biological mechanisms and new therapies to study and treat cancer.

In this project you will:

·        Develop practical cell biology skills in cell culture, and mechanism elucidation,

·        Develop practical skills for imaging and analysis,

·        Develop transferable skills such as reporting results, data presentation, time management and project planning.

 Please quote FMHS_PR1OCT2022 when applying online.