Cellular and molecular mechanisms of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia

Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Reading

Dr Susanna Cogo

Applications accepted all year round

Self-Funded PhD Students Only

About the Project

Project Overview:

Hereditary Spastic Paraplegias (HSPs) are a group of rare, inherited, neurodegenerative disorders characterised by weakness and tightness of the leg muscles. These symptoms are caused by the dysfunction of specific brain cells which control voluntary movement. HSP can start at all ages, from childhood through to adulthood, and symptoms usually worsen over time (PMID: 29478605). The genetics of HSPs is very diverse, with over 90 DNA loci (termed SPG1-93) associated with the disease. As many of the genetic factors causing HSP and the associated symptoms are shared with other hereditary neurological disorders (PMID: 33646413), research is required to understand what specific molecular changes lead to HSP. It is suggested that a small number of alterations in the function of the affected cells can explain the onset of HSP.

This project will utilise in vitro and in vivo models of HSPs, to study the cellular and molecular mechanisms which lead to disease. In addition to contributing to the characterisation of the biology of neurodegeneration, it will suggest potential targets for therapeutic intervention.

The student will learn and use multiple techniques including genetic, cell biology, molecular, imaging and behavioural assays and the related analysis methods, working within a lively and friendly scientific network at the University of Reading.

Cogo group: The Cogo group is a newly established research group within the vibrant scientific community at the University of Reading, utilising C. elegans and cellular models to investigate aging and neurodegeneration. The lab is part of a lively network of national and international collaborators.

School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading:

The University of Reading, located west of London, England, provides world-class research education programs. The University’s main Whiteknights Campus is set in 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, a 30-minute train ride to central London and 40 minutes from London Heathrow airport.

Our School of Biological Sciences conducts high-impact research, tackling current global challenges faced by society and the planet. Our research ranges from understanding and improving human health and combating disease, through to understanding evolutionary processes and uncovering new ways to protect the natural world. In 2020, we moved into a stunning new ~£60 million Health & Life Sciences building. This state-of-the-art facility is purpose-built for science research and teaching. It houses the Cole Museum of Zoology, a café and social spaces.

In the School of Biological Sciences, you will be joining a vibrant community of ~180 PhD students representing ~40 nationalities. Our students publish in high-impact journals, present at international conferences, and organise a range of exciting outreach and public engagement activities.

During your PhD at the University of Reading, you will expand your research knowledge and skills, receiving supervision in one-to-one and small group sessions. You will have access to cutting-edge technology and learn the latest research techniques. We also provide dedicated training in important transferable skills that will support your career aspirations. If English is not your first language, the University's excellent International Study and Language Institute will help you develop your academic English skills.

The University of Reading is a welcoming community for people of all faiths and cultures. We are committed to a healthy work-life balance and will work to ensure that you are supported personally and academically.

Eligibility:

Applicants should have a good degree (minimum of a UK Upper Second (2:1) undergraduate degree or equivalent) in Biology or a strongly-related discipline. Applicants will also need to meet the University’s English Language requirements. We offer pre-sessional courses that can help with meeting these requirements. With a commitment to improving diversity in science and engineering, we encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

How to apply:

Submit an application for a PhD in Biomedical Sciences via our online application system.

Further information:

https://www.reading.ac.uk/biological-sciences/research

Enquiries:

Dr Susanna Cogo, email: s.cogo@reading.ac.uk

Funding Notes

We welcome applications from self-funded students worldwide for this project.

If you are applying to an international funding scheme, we encourage you to get in contact as we may be able to support you in your application.

References

Cogo, S.*, Tomkins, J.E., Vavouraki, N., Giusti, V., Forcellato, F., Franchin, C., Tessari, I., Arrigoni, G., Cendron, L., Manzoni, C., Civiero, L., Lewis, P.A., Greggio, E.*, 2022. Cytosolic sequestration of spatacsin by Protein Kinase A and 14-3-3 proteins. Neurobiol Dis. Nov;174:105858. doi: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105858. *Corresponding authors

Chandler, R.J., Cogo, S., Lewis, P.A., Kevei, E., 2021. Modelling the Functional Genomics of Parkinson's in Caenorhabditis elegans: LRRK2 and Beyond. Biosci Rep. 2021 Aug 16:BSR20203672. doi: 10.1042/BSR20203672.