Understanding the link between fibrosis, inflammation, and breast cancer initiation

Understanding the fundamental molecular events that result in tumour initiation is critical to the prevention and treatment of human cancers. Despite much progress in detecting and treating cancer, we have very limited understanding of how cancers form in the absence of DNA mutations. Breast cancer is a leading cause of death for women worldwide and the single major factor that predicts breast cancer is the presence of scar tissue, or fibrosis, in the mammary gland.

Our lab has identified key molecular pathways that connect mammary fibrosis with the expression of inflammatory gene that create favourable conditions for epithelial transformation into cancer cells. In this project, the student will continue and further develop this line of research. Using three-dimensional cell culture and animal models, this project will investigate the molecular and cellular signalling pathways that connect mammary fibrosis to inflammation and cancer cell formation. This project will involve multiple cutting-edge cellular and genomic analyses and techniques, including CRISPR gene editing, flow/mass cytometry and next-generation sequencing of human and animal cells and tissue. Additional opportunities in cancer immunology or drug development also exist with this project, giving the student a well-rounded exposure to modern molecular and cell biology with highly marketable skills.

Objectives:

• To characterise the molecular signalling pathways that link fibrosis with cellular changes in gene transcription, methylation, and DNA damage.
• Develop a 3D cell culture imaging technique to quantify cellular changes in response to fibrosis.
• Develop a mouse model of mammary gland fibrosis and measure gene expression changes in vivo.
• Using this mouse model, identify and characterise the immune cell types that infiltrate into the mammary gland in response to tissue fibrosis.

Entry requirements

• Those who have a 1st or a 2.1 undergraduate degree in a relevant field are eligible.
• Evidence of quantitative training is required. For example, AS or A level Maths, IB Standard or Higher Maths, or university level maths/statistics course.
• Those who have a 2.2 and an additional Masters degree in a relevant field may be eligible.
• Those who have a 2.2 and at least three years post-graduate experience in a relevant field may be eligible.
• Those with degrees abroad (perhaps as well as postgraduate experience) may be eligible if their qualifications are deemed equivalent to any of the above.
• University English language requirements apply: https://le.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/entry-reqs/eng-lang-reqs/ielts-65

To apply

Carefully read the application advice on our website below and submit your PhD application. 

https://le.ac.uk/study/research-degrees/research-subjects/molecular-and-cell-biology