Although it is generally believed that MPA only, or at least mainly, affects B and T lymphocytes, which singularly depend on the de novo pathway for GTP synthesis, we have shown that MPA-mediated GTP depletion affects the gene expression of RNA polymerase III in different cell types. Furthermore, we now have preliminary data that MPA can result in DNA damage in several cell types, even when used in clinically relevant concentrations.
The Effect of Immunosuppressant Mycophenolic Acid on Gene Expression, DNA Damage and Genomic Stability course at Aston University will investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which MPA treatment can impact gene expression and DNA repair, result in DNA damage and affect cell survival. We will use different human cell lines and examine the adverse effects of ionising radiation and chemotherapeutic DNA damage drugs, that mimic cancer treatments at the cellular level, on cells treated with MPA.
Career prospects
Studying a PhD is great route into academia and industries that are centred on research and innovation. Areas with a demand for very high level and specialised research skills often demand PhDs.
In addition to this specialist knowledge, PhD education will help you to develop a set of valuable transferrable skills. The very nature of studying an intensive research degree will enable you to become a team player, develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and advanced presentation and communication skills.
The variety of PhD project topics at Aston means that the destinations of our graduates vary substantially. Some choose to continue into academia, at either Aston or other leading institutions, while others go onto use their newly acquired skills in a range of research, healthcare, industry or charitable fields. When selecting your chosen PhD path at Aston, your supervisor will be able to provide you with relevant career opportunities that could be available to you in your specialist area.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
GPA: Upper Second Class
English Requirements
- TOEFL iBT: 93 OR 4.5
- PTE Academic: 67
- IELTS: 6.5
Other Requirements / General Requirements
- A Bachelors degree in a relevant subject with an award of First Class or 2.1.
- OR A Bachelors degree in a relevant subject with an award of First Class or 2.1, and a Masters degree in a relevant subject with an award of Merit or higher.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
International: 43,039 AUD/year (≈ 22,950 GBP/year)
Domestic: 9,823 AUD/year (≈ 5,238 GBP/year)
Living Costs
Birmingham, United Kingdom: 1,435–2,127 AUD/month
Visit the programme website for more information
