PhD studentship at the University of Exeter and NIHR Healthtech Research Centre (HRCs) for Brain Health: Using APOE-associated AD Resilience to Identify Potential Biomarkers

Project Description:  Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common form of dementia caused by changes in the brain. AD risk is influenced by genetics, with certain versions of the APOE gene playing a key role: · The ε4 variant increases the risk of developing AD.

The ε2 variant lowers the risk, offering some protection. Recent research has also identified rare APOE gene variants, such as R251G (ε4) and V236E (ε3), which reduce the risk of AD by 2–3 times. This project will use bioinformatics and big data and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models —cells generated in the lab that can mimic brain cells—to study these APOE variants. By developing iPSC lines with and without these rare variants, we aim to identify new biomarkers (measurable indicators) linked to resilience against AD.

A key focus will be on extracellular vesicles (EVs)—tiny particles released by cells that play an essential role in communication. Studying EVs will help us understand: · How brain cells respond to genetic changes associated with AD. · How EVs can act as biomarkers to detect or track resilience and disease progression. This research offers exciting opportunities to discover novel insights for personalised care and new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.

The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit. Students who pay international tuition fees are eligible to apply, but should note that the award will only provide payment for part of the international tuition fee (~£24k) and no stipend. International applicants need to be aware that they will have to cover the cost of their student visa, healthcare surcharge and other costs of moving to the UK to do a PhD. The conditions for eligibility of home fees status are complex and you will need to seek advice if you have moved to or from the UK (or Republic of Ireland) within the past 3 years or have applied for settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

The collaboration involves a project partner who is providing funding [and other material support to the project], this means there are special terms that apply to the project, these will be discussed with Candidates at Interview and fully set out in the offer letter. The collaboration with the named project partner is subject to contract.

Please note full details of the project partner’s contribution and involvement with the project is still to be confirmed and may change during the course of contract negotiations. Full details will be confirmed at offer stage.

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