Sporadic inclusion-body myositis (IBM) is a common idiopathic inflammatory myopathy in adults over 50, characterized by distal muscle weakness and resistance to pharmacological treatments. Patients typically experience progressive muscle weakness and disability, losing independent mobility within seven years, imposing significant healthcare costs. While physical therapies are recommended, the impact of dietary interventions remains unclear. Dietary protein affects muscle mass, strength, and function, yet there are no guidelines or data for protein consumption in IBM patients. Protein influences muscle mass through protein turnover, involving muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and breakdown (MPB). In healthy individuals, dietary protein boosts MPS and reduces MPB, leading to a net positive protein balance and muscle growth. However, in those with poor muscle quality, these processes are disrupted, a condition known as anabolic resistance, rendering general dietary protein guidelines unsuitable. It is still unknown whether IBM patients exhibit impaired responses to dietary protein. This PhD research aims to characterize dietary protein habits and metabolism in IBM, investigate muscle protein metabolism using non-invasive methods, and assess the effectiveness of increased protein intake interventions in this population.
The primary aim of this PhD studentship is to characterise skeletal muscle protein metabolism in adults with inclusion body myositis. To address this aim, our individual objectives are:
This represents an opportunity to join the Faculty of Science and Engineering’s growing doctoral research community, committed to excellent research with impact. Successful applicants will be active researchers in our world class Institute of Sport, and will be supported to develop their skills as independent researchers.
This project provides an annual stipend of £19,237.
Please note that Home fees are covered. Eligible International students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding.
Interested applicants should contact Dr Paul Morgan(p.morgan@mmu.ac.uk) for an informal discussion.
To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Sports Medicine (or download the PGR application form).
You should also complete the (PGR thesis proposal and a Narrative CV) form addressing the project’s aims and objectives, demonstrating how the skills you have maps to the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest.
If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section, or email the application form and statement to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk.
Closing date: 14 October 2024. Expected start date: January 2025 for Home students and April 2025 for International students.
Please note that Home fees are covered. Eligible International students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding.
Please quote the reference: SciEng-2024-IBM
UK and International applicants
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