PhD Study : Utilising spider venom for diabetes drug discovery

Apply and key information  

This project is funded by:

    • Diabetes UK

Summary

Diabetes mellitus is reaching epidemic proportions globally, and despite the range of currently available anti-diabetes medications, many people still have inadequate metabolic control [1]. Arguably, one of the biggest success stories in recent times has been the discovery and clinical realisation of exendin-4, a peptide originally isolated from the saliva of the venomous Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum) lizard. Exendin-4 has been chemically developed into exenatide (Byetta) and was approved by the FDA in 2005 [2].

In relation to this, a key focus of our laboratory for many years has been drug discovery, and our recent unpublished data has uncovered a novel peptides  derived from tarantula spider venom. These peptides have been shown to be non-toxic to pancreatic beta-cells and stimulates insulin secretion. Furthermore, acute in vivo studies indicate that the novel peptides lowers blood glucose concentrations in normal and diabetic rodents. Thus, spider venom derived peptides offer an exciting new anti-diabetes opportunity.

To extend these important observations and progress a possible novel therapeutic drug regimen for diabetes, we propose to:

*Discover novel, potential antidiabetic, venom-edrived peptides from various spiders belonging to the Theraphosidae family

*Elucidate the mechanism of action of novel venom derived peptides in pancreatic islet cells.

*Assess metabolic benefits of repeated daily dosing with novel peptides in preclinical models of obesity-diabetes.

*Determine the molecular mechanisms involved in the beneficial effects.

A wide range of methods are required for this study including peptide synthesis, HPLC purification of peptides, mass-spectrometry, in vitro insulin secretion studies, PCR and Western blot, longer term in vitro culturing, assessment of markers of proliferation and apoptosis, in vitro radio-receptor binding studies, animal studies in normal rodents as well as rodent models of obesity-diabetes, tissue gene expression studies, blood biochemistry assessments, DXA scanning and measurement of body fat, indirect calorimetry measurements, behavioural analysis and use of assays including ELISA and RIA technologies. This will provide excellent training in a wide variety of important research techniques.

References

1. Reach G, Pechtner V, Gentilella R, Corcos A, Ceriello A. Clinical inertia and its impact on treatment intensification in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Metab. 2017: S1262-3636(17)30467-6.

2. Holst JJ. Glucagon-like peptide-1: from extract to agent. The Claude Bernard Lecture, 2005. Diabetologia. 2006 Feb;49(2):253-60.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

  • Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

  • First Class Honours (1st) Degree
  • Masters at 65%
  • Research project completion within taught Masters degree or MRES
  • Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
  • Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
  • Work experience relevant to the proposed project
  • Publications - peer-reviewed
  • Experience of presentation of research findings
  • A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
  • Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health related area

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

  • Diabetes UK

This scholarship will cover tuition fees at home/EU rate and a maintenance allowance of at least £17,000.

The Doctoral College at Ulster University

Key dates

Submission deadline
Friday 28 June 2019
12:00AM

Interview Date
9 July 2019

Preferred student start date
September 2019

Applying

Apply Online  

Contact supervisor

Professor Nigel Irwin

Other supervisors