Mechanisms of neuronal protection in diabetic neuropathy.
Fact file
| Duration |
Three to four years full-time |
|---|
| Eligibility |
Self-funded; Home, EU or International Students |
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| Supervisor(s) |
Dr Lucy Donaldson |
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| Application deadline |
No deadline |
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About the project
Sensory neurons are particularly vulnerable to damage. This is now most commonly found in diabetes mellitus where hyperglycaemia results in the production of several factors (e.g. advanced glycation end-products (AGE)) that can cause sensory neuronal damage and death. Sensory neuropathy is a debilitating complication of diabetes, affecting 50% of people with diabetes. In 20% of these people, sensory neuropathy leads to chronic pain.
We are currently investigating the effect of novel growth factors on the survival of sensory neurons in vitro and in vivo. We have demonstrated that these growth factors can protect sensory neurons from damage and death, and can stimulate the growth of neurites. We have also shown that these growth factors can protect sensory neurons in animal models of diabetes, and can reverse the pain associated with such nerve damage. We are currently investigating the mechanisms of this protection, developing and testing new drugs that can boost the endogenous expression of neuroprotective growth factors, and studying the interaction of growth factors and AGEs in diabetic neuropathy.
This project would also be suitable for students wishing to study for one year for an MRes .
Funding notes
This project is available to self-funded students. Home applicants should contact the supervisor to determine the current funding status for this project. EU applicants should visit the Graduate School webpages for information on specific EU scholarships. International applicants should visit our International Research Scholarships page for information regarding fees and funding at the University.
See this project on FindaPhD
Mechanisms of neuronal protection in diabetic neuropathy.