Cannabinoid mode of action in gut epithelial organoids using live cell Raman microscopy

Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University

Primary supervisor: Dr Karen Wright
Co-supervisor: Dr Lorna Ashton

This project will combine advanced cell culture modelling with Raman technology to monitor the distribution and localisation of plant-derived, endogenous and synthetic cannabinoids in real time in both 2D and 3D gut epithelial cultures under both normal and inflammatory conditions. By investigating the nucleic acid, phenylalanine and lipid regions, their effects on cells will be monitored. Mapping the transfer of cannabinoids to regions of the cell and the specific organelle will provide proof of principle for this technology to advance the field of drug development. In addition, the identification and characterization of cellular architecture within the 3-dimensional intestinal organoid will potentially provide new ways to distinguish between healthy and infected or cancerous cells.

Although primarily based in Biomedical and Life Sciences with Dr Karen Wright this project also involves working closely with Dr Lorna Ashton in the Department of Chemistry. This is a competition funded PhD project and further details can be found at www.findaphd.com

Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a 1st class or good 2:1 Masters-level degree or equivalent in Chemistry. Informal email enquires prior to making an application are strongly encouraged; contact karen.wright@lancaster.ac.uk

Applications should be made via Lancaster University’s online application system (see http://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/how-to-apply-for-postgraduate-study/ for details).

Deadline: March 6, 2015