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• neuroscience and mental health

• Immunology
• Neurology
• Neuropsychiatry
• Pharmacology
• Physiology
• Psychiatry

Our research lies within the area of Neuroscience, with a interest in drug & biomarker development for neurological and pyschaitric illnesses. We focuse primarily on investigating the biology of glial cells, specifically the analysis of ?astrocyte-derived biomarkers?. These cells play a role in a number of psychiatric, neurodegenerative and neurological diseases, making their study of importance to aid our understanding of normal and abnormal brain function. Disorders such as schizophrenia appear to have both genetic and environmental triggers, which interplay in a complex and not as yet fully understood manner. Over the past 5-6 years, we have been analyzing the levels of cytokines and chemokines in plasma and serum samples of patients with schizophrenia and find these molecules may be altered.

Relevant References:
O?Connell et al (2015) Increased IL23 in schizophrenia. Cytokine 73,196-198.
O?Connell & Dev (2014) Immune and Metabolic Factors of Schizophrenia. J Psych Behav Sci 1, 005.
O?Connell et al (2014) Premium of a big pharma license deal. Nature Biotechnology 32, 617-619.
O?Connell et al (2014) Cytokine signature patterns in Multiple Sclerosis. Autoimmunity 30, 1-7.
O?Connell et al (2014) Cytokine levels in schizophrenia. Schizophrenia Research 156, 1-8.
O?Connell et al (2013). S100B levels in schizophrenia BMC Psychiatry 13,146.

In this study we aim to firsly collect serum samples from schizophrenia patients, then expose human glial cells to these serum samples and lastly examine their effects on these human glial cell function. We expect that serum samples from schizophrenia patients may induce an aberant function in glial cells, i.e. altered glial cell signalling, survival and/or migration to name a few. The project will be divided into three interlocking thesis chapters. Firstly collection and complete clinical analysis of patients particpating in the study (clinical based). Secondly, the additon of serum to human glial cells and examining altered glial cels function (laboratory based). Thirdly, the development of a prototype biomarker kit for schizophrenia. At the end of this study, we hope to establish a cellular based biomarker for schizophrenia.

This project will expose you to (i) a clincal based study, (ii) a laboratory based project and (iii) inclusion of a business/commercialisation activity.

We are looking for a dedicated person, who can work independently, has analytical skills and is detail orientated. You should be interested in developing insights into drug development and be willing to take project related responsibilities.