Investigating mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells-derived extracellular vesicles neuroprotection

About the Project

Our goal is to harness the therapeutic use of stem cells to repair neuronal damage in the brain. It is our hypothesis that neuroprotective factors that are naturally present in our body, specifically released by mesenchymal stem cells via extracellular vesicles will reverse the effects of synaptic dysfunction, a well-established early mechanism of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) which contributes to pathology spreading in the brain over time.

Mesenchymal stem cells convey neuroprotective molecules by releasing extracellular vesicles, small particles that contain all kinds of factors e.g., lipids, proteins, nucleic acids etc. These extracellular vesicles enter the bloodstream and can easily reach targets far away from the original source, including the brain, and release their content there. Utilising comparative proteomics and digital transcriptomics, we have already isolated and characterised over twenty potential therapeutic candidate molecules (both proteins and miRNA), all demonstrating qualities that may mediate neuroprotection.

We now propose to validate these factors and understand how they concur to the mechanism mediating MSCs-EVs neuroprotection. Starting from in vitro AD models (e.g. based on primary mouse hippocampal neurons treated with amyloid-β) and “simple” live models of AD disease, the project will move to explore neuroprotection in iPSC neurons generated from AD patients and delivery in our new blood–brain barrier (BBB) in vitro

model. We will incorporate the neuroprotective factors in lipid nanobubbles containing MRI contrast agents as potential therapeutic vectors for crossing the BBB to the site of action. We will also explore more delivery systems aiming to bypass the BBB with targeted drug delivery.

The successful applicant will gain diverse training in molecular cell biology establishing stem cells from human cord tissues, extracellular vesicles isolation and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-culturing and differentiation. The PhD candidate will also experience working as part of a large interdisciplinary team. Studies will be supported by the School of Science and Technology at Nottingham Trent University, the 2023 Modern University of the Year (Times Higher Education). The successful applicant will have a first or a high 2.1 M-level qualification in bioscience and a keen interest and curiosity for the field. Prior proven experience in the research laboratory will be an advantage.

Supervisors

1) Elisabetta Verderio Edwards (DOS); email:

2) Elisa Tonoli; email:

3) Gareth Cave; email: gareth.cave @ntu.ac.uk

To help us track our recruitment effort, please indicate in your email – cover/motivation letter where (jobs-near-me.eu) you saw this job posting.

Share

Recent Posts

Registered Nurse Weekend On-Call $10,000 Sign On Bonus

Job title: Registered Nurse Weekend On-Call $10,000 Sign On Bonus Company Agape Care Group Job…

20 minutes ago

Senior Scientist mit Doktorat

Job title: Senior Scientist mit Doktorat Company Universität Innsbruck Job description Senior Scientist mit DoktoratBeginn/Dauer:…

58 minutes ago

Contratación de un Experto/a en Agronomía

1. INTRODUCCIÓN El Proyecto “DRONTIER – Reducida la pobreza de comunidades fronterizas en República Dominicana…

1 hour ago

Analyst, EU Partnerships

Position description The Analyst will work with the team responsible for EU funds in the…

1 hour ago

Coordinateur(trice) des Ressources Humaines – RCA – H/F

ALIMA, l’ONG médicale internationale à visage humain, qui met au cœur de son modèle la…

1 hour ago

Associate Director, Development and Outreach

Position description The Development and Outreach Department of Human Rights Watch (“HRW”) is seeking applicants…

1 hour ago
For Apply Button. Please use Non-Amp Version