Axons are the enormously long cable-like processes of neurons that wire the nervous system. These delicate structures have to be maintained for a life time. We lose 40% of our axons towards old age and many more in neurodegenerative diseases. Key components of axons are bundles of microtubules (MTs) serving as their structural backbones and highways for life-sustaining transport. We study the role and regulation of these bundles to understand axon growth, maintenance and degeneration.
Capitalising on uniquely powerful genetic analyses of neurons of the fruit fly Drosophila in culture and in vivo, we have identified a number of key mechanisms that maintain axonal MT bundles in order. These involve MT polymerisation and guidance, their cortical elimination and their stabilisation, all essential to maintain parallel MT bundles. An important further class of regulators are MT severing proteins including spastin, katanin and fidgetin, which disassemble MTs and maintain them in a dynamic state. Of these, spastin is closely linked to spastic paraplegia, a motorneuron disease-like condition, and we find that also loss of katanin has detrimental effects on axons.
On this project you will study the important roles of MT-severing proteins and unravel how they contribute to axonal longevity and decay. For this, you will use genetic manipulations of Drosophila neurons in culture and in vivo, advanced microscopy and image analysis, electron microscopy, as well as basic molecular biology and biochemistry. Furthermore, Andreas Prokop is a science communication expert providing important further training possibilities relevant for your future career path.
Training/techniques to be provided:
Training opportunities will include classical genetics and its application in Drosophila, cell culture techniques, analyses of brain tissues in vivo, advanced microscopy including super-resolution and live imaging, advanced image analysis, electron microscopy, basic skills in molecular biology and biochemistry, as well as science communication
Entry Requirements
Candidates are expected to hold a minimum upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a biology subject. Candidates with a convincing interest in the subject matter are encouraged to apply. Some laboratory experience will help your application, but this can be discussed.
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 the appropriate subject title.
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/”
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