Using zebrafish to model Facioscapulohumeral muscle dystrophy and screen for drugs to enhance muscle stem cell health
Project details
First supervisor: Dr Robert Knight
Second supervisor: Professor Peter Zammit
Sponsor: Muscular Dystrophy UK
Funding available: Stipend payable £17,009 p.a. set to MRC rate and bench fees covered
Duration of award: 3 years
Mode of study: Full-time
Eligibility: Home/EU, overseas
Start date: October 1st 2020 unless an earlier start date is possible
Application deadline: 26 January 2020
Reference number: 2019/DOCS/09
Project description
Facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD) is the 3rd most common muscle dystrophy leading to progressive muscle weakness of facial, shoulder and limb muscles and so impairing quality of life. This project aims to create an animal model to study how the FSHD disease protein, DUX4, affects muscle stem cells and immune cells during regeneration and screen for drugs that can overcome its affects.
A zebrafish FSHD model will be created using molecular genetics techniques and cell behaviour observed during muscle regeneration by laser microscopy to reveal why muscle atrophies as a consequence of DUX4 activity. This FSHD animal model will then be used to screen drugs approved for human use to identify those that are able to enhance muscle health and so could be of potential benefit to FSHD patients.
Person specification
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A dynamic and interested person with a passion for science and an interest in the subject of muscle/ regenerative biology
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An Honours class degree with experience of laboratory research, preferably in molecular genetics and imaging
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Possess good communication skills and happy to work with others
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Willing to learn and explore new methods
Research training
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Molecular genetics and molecular cloning
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Confocal and multiphoton microscopy
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Gene expression analysis and immunohistochemistry
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Techniques for manipulating gene function in a model organism
To view entry requirements and further information, see the Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD.
Next steps
Please apply online at apply.kcl.ac.uk following these steps:
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Register a new account/login
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Once logged in, select Create a new application
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Enter ‘Dental and Health Sciences Research MPhil/PhD (Full-time)/(Part-time)' under Choose a programme. Please ensure you select the correct mode of study
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Select the start date (1st October 2020)
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Please note: Applicants must include the project reference number (2019/DOCS/09) in the 'Research proposal' and 'Funding (point 5)' sections of the application
Applications must be received by the deadline specified in this listing.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss projects with the first supervisor prior to submitting an application.
Contact for further information
Dr. Robert Knight
robert.knight@kcl.ac.uk
Related Centre Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology
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