Establishing a humanised zebrafish model for studying the genetic resilience in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1)

Project Code

MRCIIAR26Ex Scholpp

Project Type

Wet lab

Research Theme

Infection, Immunity, Antimicrobial Resistance and Repair

Project Summary Download

Summary

This PhD project explores the phenomenon of “genetic resilience” in the context of Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumours (MPNSTs), aggressive cancers linked to Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1). Although individuals with NF1 are more likely to develop MPNSTs, the varying incidence indicates that certain cellular mechanisms provide protection against malignant transformation. This research seeks to uncover the molecular pathways behind this resilience and, therefore, identify new therapeutic targets that could boost cellular defences, opening new possibilities for prevention against MPNSTs. By using zebrafish as an in vivo model for NF1, this PhD project aims to investigate innovative strategies for disease prevention.

Lead Supervisor

Professor Steffen Scholpp

Lead Supervisor Email

s.scholpp@exeter.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Exeter