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  Identifying antibodies that target systemic amyloid deposition


   Institute of Integrative Biology

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  Dr J Madine, Dr SV Antonyuk, Dr T Crabbe  No more applications being accepted  Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)

About the Project

Amyloid deposition is a worldwide burden associated with a range of largely age-associated diseases. However, the mechanisms underlying the process of amyloid aggregation and possible strategies for degradation are still not fully understood. The aim of this project is to use 6 amyloid-forming proteins (light chain proteins - lambda and kappa, apolipoprotein, transthyretin, lysozyme and fibrinogen) to design antibodies that can bind to different protein forms associated with the aggregation process (monomer, oligomer, fibril). The structural implications of this binding will be fully characterised using a range of structural biology and complementary techniques. This will enhance understanding of the aggregation process and provide opportunity for further development of the antibodies to target the proteins for degradation as a future therapeutic option. This project is a CASE award between University of Liverpool and UCB, where the student will spend a period of time at UCB. This gives the advantage of gaining academic and industrial experience in one project and how they work together to enhance research.

For further information see the website: https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/integrative-biology/

To apply:
Please complete the online application form and attach a full CV and covering letter - https://forms.ncl.ac.uk/view.php?id=553440. Informal enquiries may be made to [Email Address Removed]


Funding Notes

This is a 4 year BBSRC CASE studentship under the Newcastle-Liverpool-Durham DTP. The successful applicant will receive research costs, tuition fees and stipend (£14,553 for 2017-18). The PhD will start in October 2018. Applicants should have, or be expecting to receive, a 2.1 Hons degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject. EU candidates must have been resident in the UK for 3 years in order to receive full support. There are 2 stages to the application process.

References

H.A. Davies, M.M. Phelan, M.C. Wilkinson, R.Q. Migrino, S. Truran, D.A. Franco, L.N. Liu, C.J. Longmore, and J. Madine (2015) Oxidative stress alters the morphology and toxicity of aortic medial amyloid. Biophys J, 109, 2363-2370.

Where will I study?