Investigating the mechanistic basis of ageing on the level of the single cell
Topic. Ageing is a complex phenomenon that arises from the interplay between genetic and environmental factors and results in the accumulation of functional defects, eventually leading to general system failure. On the level of the individual cell, ageing is often associated with a variety of intracellular alterations such as complexation and aggregation of proteins, DNA damage, morphological deformations and/or loss of compartmentalization.
In order to obtain a better understanding of this multifaceted response, we investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of cellular structures (lamins, telomeres…) in cells derived from patients suffering from premature ageing diseases and in cells undergoing cellular ageing (senescence). By means of live cell imaging and high content cytometry we aim at establishing mechanistic links between protein (re-)distribution patterns and altered cellular function. In addition, using real-time imaging approaches, we expose cells to several stressors in fluxo to quantitatively measure alterations in cellular response (ion fluxes, oxygen radicals, protein dynamics…).
Tasks. The successful applicant will perform research in the context of the project outlined above. At the end of this 4 year doctoral research, a Ph.D. thesis must be written to obtain the degree of Doctor in Applied Biological Sciences.
Profile
Context. The PhD project will be carried out at the Bio-imaging and Cytometry Unit, department of Molecular Biotechnology. The Bio-imaging and Cytometry unit also hosts the Light Microscopy Division (LiMiD). This PhD project is part of the research lines set forth by the Centre for Nano- and Biophotonics and will be carried out in collaboration with the Biophotonic Imaging Group, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy.
