Control of Parathyroid Hormone Secretion

About the Project

The regulation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion is of fundamental importance for calcium homeostasis and in mineral conditions affecting bone and the kidneys. Whilst it is clear that the calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) represents the key controller of PTH secretion by suppressing its secretion, the way the CaR works remains unclear. Indeed, it is still not clear how elevated intracellular calcium concentration (Ca2+i) appears to suppress PTH secretion in parathyroid gland while stimulating hormone / neurotransmitter secretion in many other cell-types. Furthermore, the pulsatility of PTH secretion, which is vital for bone formation, remains poorly understood. Therefore, this project aims to shed light on both the basic physiology of mammalian calcium homeostasis as well as helping us to understand the development of osteoporosis and CKD-MBD (bone mineral disease of chronic kidney disease). This project involves live cell imaging (including intracellular calcium imaging), and ex vivo hormone assays, as well as cell transfection with receptors, signalling modulators and siRNAs for selectively knocking down expression of CaR signal regulators.

Candidates are expected to hold (or be about to obtain) a minimum 2:1 Bachelors Degree with Honours (or equivalent) in a related area/subject. Candidates with Masters-level experience in molecular and/or in vivo techniques are strongly encouraged to apply.

Before you Apply

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.

How to Apply

To be considered for this project you MUST submit a formal online application form – on the application form select PhD Endocrinology Programme. Full details on how to apply can be found on the Website: How to apply for postgraduate research at The University of Manchester

If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team FBMH.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website: Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI | Postgraduate Research | Biology, Medicine and Health | University of Manchester

Funding Notes

Applications are invited from self-funded students. This project has a Band 3 (high) fee. Details of our different fee bands can be found on our website View Website