Targeting ion channels to combat chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain

Of the many different types of clinical pain, pain caused by the medicine taken to combat an existing disease is particularly devastating; a prevalent example is pain caused by the strong drugs used to treat cancer. In particular, many common anti-cancer drugs can cause nerve damage; due to such serious symptoms, it is often necessary to reduce or even stop drug treatment. Additionally, amongst the analgesic drugs currently used, there is no preventative or treatment for the nerve damage pain caused by anti-cancer drugs.

Maria Maiarù and Gary Stephens at the University of Reading are collaborating on this Pain Relief Foundation Prof John Miles Prize PhD studentship. This study will focuses on ion channels that regulate the flow of calcium into nerve cells; in particular, the ‘T-type’ calcium channel. We have identified a protein, called CACHD1, that regulates calcium channel function and which is found in high levels in pain pathways. This project will investigate if T-type calcium channels and the CACHD1 protein represent new drug targets to prevent pain caused by anti-cancer drugs.

We will use a preclinical animal model and techniques such as electrophysiology and cell signalling pathway analysis to investigate the biological processes that may lead to pain associated with anti-cancer drugs. It is hoped that this fundamental research will eventually lead to much-needed new treatments for pain caused by anti-cancer drugs

Applicants should have an interest in working with preclinical models and in drug discovery, but all techniques will be taught. Successful candidate will benefit from full technological and academic support from the research groups of Maria Maiarù and Gary Stephens, as well as access to the vast array of expertise and tools provided by close collaborators across the country. Successful candidate will acquire a broad range of skills including in vivo techniques, electrophysiology, experimental design and data analysis. Moreover, the candidate will join the vibrant Pain Research Reading which includes academics from pharmacy, neuroscience and psychology and clinicians from the Royal Berkshire Hospital.