About the Project
Supervisors:
Professor Victor Gault
Dr Nigel Irwin
Project Description
Xenin is a hormone co-secreted from intestinal K-cells which has been shown to stimulate insulin secretion and potentiate the insulinotropic action of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). We have recently shown that a shortened form of xenin, (xenin 18-25), retains all of the important glucoregulatory biological actions of the full-length peptide and thus offers particular therapeutic promise for possible linkage of bioactive domains of other important regulatory peptides, to generate a single molecule with multiple-acting properties for diabetes therapy. This project will examine biological action and therapeutic utility of novel xenin hybrid peptides generated through linking the bioactive domains of xenin with two important gut hormones, GIP and neurotensin (NT). Both GIP and NT are logical gut peptides to hybridise with xenin given site of secretion and structure similarity. The objective is to generate a single molecule that combines beneficial actions of xenin, along with other important gut-derived regulatory peptide hormones. Hybrid peptides will be designed and initially characterised for in vitro and ex vivo insulin secretion, apoptosis and beta cell proliferation. Glucoregulatory and insulinotropic activity will be determined prior to determination of duration of action. Finally, beneficial actions of novel xenin-based hybrids will be tested in animal models. This PhD project will provide excellent training in a range of research techniques including: peptide chemistry, HPLC purification, mass-spectrometry, in vitro insulin secretion using cell-lines and isolated islets, PCR and Western blot, longer term in vitro culturing, assessment of markers of proliferation and apoptosis, animal studies in normal rodents as well as models of obesity-diabetes, tissue gene expression studies, blood biochemistry assessments, DXA scanning and measurement of body fat, indirect calorimetry measurements and behavioural analysis.
We are seeking an applicant with good practical laboratory, computer and communication skills and enthusiasm and commitment to work diligently on all aspects of the research project. A background in biomedical sciences, pharmacology or a related subject would be desirable.
Informal enquiries to Professor Gault ([Email Address Removed]) are welcomed.
References and additional links
For more information on this project, the supervisory team and graduate studies at Ulster, please visit
http://www.science.ulster.ac.uk/gradschool/biomedical/
How to apply for this project:
http://www.ulster.ac.uk/research-and-innovation/phdresearch-degrees/how-to-apply
Closing date for Applications is 24 February 2017.
Funding Notes
The Department for the Economy (DfE) (formerly called Department for Employment and Learning (DEL))
The University has DfE research studentships available for PhD projects. These pay tuition fees and an annual maintenance award of not less than £14,553 per annum. These awards are open to holders of, or those expected to obtain, first or upper second class honours degrees and cover fees at the home rate and, for applicants with UK residence only, a maintenance allowance. Non-UK residents who hold ordinary EU residence may also apply but, if successful, will receive fees only. Applicants should indicate in the appropriate box on their University application form that they wish to apply for a DfE award. The closing date for receipt of applications will be 24 February 2017. Information on terms and conditions for DfE awards, including eligibility, can be found here: DfE Terms and Conditions for 2016/2017
Vice-Chancellor's Research Scholarships (VCRS)
A number of University funded VCRS will be available for PhD projects at Ulster. These awards are open to applicants who hold or, expect to obtain, a first or upper second class honours degree. They will cover tuition fees and a maintenance award of not less than £14,553 per annum for three years. Applications are invited from UK, European Union and overseas students. Applicants with up to one year’s current or previous registration for PhD at any institution may be considered for an award subject to the applicant providing evidence of good academic progress, formal release from all IP restrictions and ethical approval (if required). Three-year awards may be allocated to such applicants where they are taking-up a new project at Ulster. Applicants should indicate in the appropriate area on their University application form that they wish to apply for a University Studentship/VCRS award. The closing date for receipt of applications will be 24 February 2017. Information on terms and conditions for VCRS awards, including eligibility, can be found here: VCRS Terms and Conditions for 2016/2017