PhD Studentship : Integrative Analysis of Whole Genomes and Transcriptomes from Multiple Cell Types in Rare Disease Patients

About the GW4 BioMed2 Doctoral Training Partnership

The partnership brings together the Universities of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff (lead) and Exeter to develop the next generation of biomedical researchers. Students will have access to the combined research strengths, training expertise and resources of the four research-intensive universities, with opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary and 'team science'. The DTP already has over 90 studentships over 6 cohorts in its first phase, along with 58 students over 3 cohorts in its second phase.

Project Information

Research Theme: Population Health Sciences

Summary: Diabetic foot issues pose significant challenges for patients and healthcare providers. Current evaluation methods are costly, invasive, and subjective. This study aims to address these problems by analysing gait patterns in diabetic patients compared to healthy individuals. By examining how foot ulcers affect movement and using computational and experimental biomechanics simulations, we aim to understand changes in load distribution within the foot. This will enhance our knowledge of heel pad deformities, which contribute to diabetic foot ulcers.

Project Description: Approximately 10% of the NHS budget for England and Wales is allocated to diabetes care, costing the healthcare system more than £1.5 million every hour. This expenditure amounts to an estimated £14 billion
annually, primarily spent on managing complications rather than providing direct diabetic care. The cost of diabetes medications alone has surged by nearly £500 million since 2015, underscoring the escalating financial burden on the NHS. Diabetes mellitus, a chronic illness affecting millions globally, leads to numerous complications, including diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). DFUs result from peripheral artery disease and neuropathy, increasing the risk of infection and amputation. Preventing these catastrophic outcomes necessitates early detection and effective management of foot health issues.

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