The genetic and mechanistic contributions to exercise-induced muscle damage (Advert ref: RDF18/SER/HICKS)

It is well accepted that unaccustomed eccentric contractions result in exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), characterised by an acute reduction in force and residual muscle soreness. To date, however, the precise mechanisms that underpin the magnitude of, and variation in, EIMD remain unclear.

Following eccentric contractions there is considerable variation in the EIMD response, with both high and low responders evident. Although some of the variation observed between studies can be attributed to methodological and participant differences, the cause of variation within homogenous cohorts of the same study is less clear. Inherent differences in eccentric strength and degree of fascicle strain have been identified as two possible contributors to the inter-individual variability in EIMD response [5], but evidence suggests that genetic variability may also contribute.

A plethora of genetic polymorphisms encoding key proteins within the muscle-tendon unit (MTU) have been identified. Consequently, if the function and/or expression of key proteins of the MTU is altered, this might have implications for the magnitude of EIMD, and might provide some explanation for the considerable variability within the EIMD response. Therefore, the proposed project will use well-established musculoskeletal and molecular analysis techniques to develop and advance the understanding of EIMD at a mechanistic, molecular and a muscle-tendon unit level following eccentric exercise.

Eligibility and How to Apply
Please note eligibility requirement:
• Academic excellence of the proposed student i.e. 2:1 (or equivalent GPA from non-UK universities [preference for 1st class honours]); or a Masters (preference for Merit or above); or APEL evidence of substantial practitioner achievement.
• Appropriate IELTS score, if required.

For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see
https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/

Please note: Applications that do not include a research proposal of approximately 1,000 words (not a copy of the advert), or that do not include the advert reference (e.g. RDF18/…) will not be considered.

Deadline for applications: 28 January 2018
Start Date: 1 October 2018

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