Cannabinoid interactions with gut microbiota and permeability function
Supervisor: Dr Karen Wright
Changes in the permeability of intestinal tissue during inflammatory circumstances is likely to result in increased translocation of gut microbiota, which may in turn contribute to the perpetual cycles of relapse and remission seen in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, such as Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative colitis. This project will explore the interaction of the cannabinoid system in this context and determine the therapeutic potential of non-psychactive Cannabis extract, cannabidiol. The project will utilise both cellular and molecular techniques as well as the use of ethically obtained human intestinal tissue, when available.
This PhD studentship will be based in the GI Inflammation and Cancer Labs in the Faculty of Health and Medicine. The specific aims of this project make use of the research expertise of the proposed supervisor and will facilitate the identification and validation of future drug targets for IBD and/or colorectal cancer. In order to investigate the mechanisms for cannabinoid-induced functions, the successful applicant will have the opportunity to combine pharmacological, cellular and molecular techniques with clinical application, in modern fully-equipped laboratories. Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a first or upper second class honours degree in a relevant subject.