About the Project
Metastasis is the term used to describe the movement of cancer cells from the primary site of disease to other areas of the body. Developing our understanding of the pathways and molecules orchestrating this process will help to identify potential drug targets, which in turn may lead to new therapies designed to specifically inhibit metastasis.
Unlike metastasis, the formation of a healthy placenta is a highly specialised and tightly regulated process, however, the invasive behaviour of the placenta-forming cells are similar to those exhibited by metastatic cancer cells. Two of the key regulating players in the placenta-forming process have been identified as proteins KISS1 and KISS1R.
Recent studies have shown that the drug Honokiol can inhibit metastasis in human kidney cancer cells. Honokiol is extracted from the bark of Magnolia trees, and is used in traditional Eastern medicine. One of the effects of this drug is to up-regulate production of KISS1 and KISS1R proteins, which is thought to bring about the observed inhibition of metastasis.
This aims of this project are to further our knowledge on how KISS1 and KISS1R inhibit cell invasion, and, if it is possible to attenuate their regulation in highly metastatic cancer cells by using molecular tools and the drug Honokiol. One of the methods used will include analysing highly metastatic cancer cells lines in 3D tumour modelling assays, which will allow more physiologically relevant studies. Another aim, will be to identify novel players involved in inhibiting metastasis by biochemical methods.
Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in Biological / Biomedical Sciences with a good fundamental knowledge of Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry..
English language requirement
IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.
Essential attributes:
• Experience of fundamental molecular and cellular biology lab skills, including; qPCR, cloning, immuno-blotting, tissue culture and microscopy.
• Competent in lab maths, research skills, data analysis, problem solving.
• Knowledge of cell signalling, cell migration pathways and cancer biology
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management
Desirable attributes:
The prospective candidate should have a strong desire to undertake a lab-based research project in cancer cell biology. There will be opportunities to present your research at seminars and conferences, so confidence in public speaking and familiarity with presenting your work is desirable. Training and regular research progress meetings will occur throughout the duration of the PhD, however, due to teaching commitments of the supervisory team, the candidate should have the ability to work autonomously.
When applying for this position please quote Project ID SAS0018.
References
Cheng S, Castillo V, Eliaz I, Sliva D. Honokiol suppresses metastasis of renal cell carcinoma by targeting KISS1/KISS1R signaling. International Journal of Oncology. 2015 Jun;46(6):2293-8.
Francis VA, Abera AB, Matjila M, Millar RP, Katz AA. Kisspeptin regulation of genes involved in cell invasion and angiogenesis in first trimester human trophoblast cells. PloS One. 2014;9(6):e99680.