Inhibiting amyloid development using natural compounds: a molecular dynamics study

Amyloid fibrils are highly ordered protein aggregates associated with many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Flavanoids, which are polyphenols such as curcumin present in the human diet, have been shown to inhibit fibril formation in tau protein which is abundant in neurons. However, the molecular mechanisms of this inhibition remain elusive. This project will utilise molecular dynamics simulation, exploiting the ARCHIE_WeSt supercomputer at Strathclyde (www.archie-west.ac.uk), to understand how the inhibitors interact with protein aggregates; how do they interfere with the nucleation and growth pathway of the fibrils, and can they reverse aggregation? As appropriate, the work can be complemented with in vitro cytotoxicity testing, with the aim of developing effective aggregation inhibitors with the potential for disease prevention.

In addition to undertaking cutting edge research, students are also registered for the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Development (PGCert), which is a supplementary qualification that develops a student’s skills, networks and career prospects.

Information about the host department can be found by visiting:

www.strath.ac.uk/engineering/chemicalprocessengineering

www.strath.ac.uk/courses/research/chemicalprocessengineering/