http://www.dtpstudentships.manchester.ac.uk/projects/
Details
This proposal aims to develop generic tools for understanding parasitic nematode infections, a major health problem in the developing world, particular in parts of Africa. We will focus on a protein, P43 that has been identified by the Grencis group as key to whipworm infections. Its role in infections suggests that P43 would be a novel target for therapeutic interventions, but further development is hampered by lack of understanding of the structure-function relationships. Preliminary results suggest that glycosylation plays an important role in function of P43, which this study will investigate. The analysis is particular demanding because glycan analysis and investigation of carbohydrate-binding proteins lacks off-the-shelf technology. The Flitsch and Barran groups have developed a number of tools to address protein-glycan interactions, in particular the use of glycan arrays (Nat.Chem., 2014. DOI:10.1038/NCHEM.1817; JACS, 2012. DOI:10.1021/ja211861m) which will be applied here. This interdisciplinary project will provide the students with skills in state-of-the-art analytical methods, in particular mass spectrometry.
Contact for further Information
For more details contact Professor Sabine Flitsch (sabine.flitsch@manchester.ac.uk)
Funding Notes
This project is to be funded under the BBSRC Doctoral Training Programme. If you are interested in this project, please make direct contact with the Principal Supervisor to arrange to discuss the project further as soon as possible. You MUST also submit an online application form, full details on how to apply can be found on the BBSRC DTP website http://www.dtpstudentships.manchester.ac.uk/
Applications are invited from UK/EU nationals only. Applicants must have obtained, or be about to obtain, at least an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject.
Ensure that the department is set the School of Chemistry and search for Prof Flitsch as the supervisor.