Allosteric modulation of P2X ion channels (FOUNTAINU18ICASE2)

P2X receptors are ligand-gated ion channels activated by extracellular adenosine 5’-triphosphate (ATP). In mammals, fast biological effects of ATP are mediated by P2X receptors during neurotransmission, response to painful stimuli and regulation of blood pressure. The human genome encodes 7 P2X receptors (P2X1-7). P2X receptors are trimeric, formed by the assembly of 3 pore-forming subunits that form a cation-selective pore gated by extracellular ATP. The ATP binding site (orthosteric site) lies between subunits and is highly structurally conserved. Drug-like compounds that bind to the orthosteric site are therefore unlikely to offer receptor subtype specificity. Conversely, allosteric sites are under low evolutionary pressure and are likely to display structural diversity between receptor subtypes. Despite some progress, the predictive identification of allosteric sites remains challenging.

A collaboration with Merck will allow for investigation of known small molecule allosteric modulators of P2X eceptors for empirical identification of allosteric sites within P2X receptors. The project will employ patch-clamp electrophysiology, molecular modelling, calcium imaging, mutagenesis and high-throughput screening to elucidate the molecular basis for allosteric modulation of P2X receptor subunits.

Research will be undertaken within the state-of-the-art Biomedical Research Centre on the Norwich Research Park in addition to 9-12 months at the new Merck Research Laboratories in San Francisco, USA. You will join an international recognised research based at UEA. The laboratory is very well funded by the British Heart Foundation, RCUK and industrial partners. We are a highly dynamic group and presentation at domestic and international conferences is encouraged.

This Industrial CASE project has been shortlisted for funding by the Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP). Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed as part of the studentship competition on either the 9th, 10th or 11th January 2018.
The Norwich Biosciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NRPDTP) offers postgraduates the opportunity to undertake a 4 year research project whilst enhancing professional development and research skills through a comprehensive training programme. You will join a vibrant community of world-leading researchers.
For further information and to apply, please visit our website: http://biodtp.norwichresearchpark.ac.uk/the-programme/industrial-case

For more information on the supervisor for this project, please go here: https://www.uea.ac.uk/biological-sciences/people/profile/s-j-fountain
Type of programme: PhD
Start date of project: 1st October 2018
Mode of study: Full time
Length of studentship: 4 years

Students with, or expecting to attain, at least an upper second class honours degree, or equivalent, are invited to apply.