Investigating the function of brain glial cells in the hypothalamus: behaviour, reproduction and growth
Key information
Research topics
This is a summer student position supervised by Richard Clayton in Robin Lovell-Badge's lab.
Introduction to the science
Our lab is interested in the development and specification of stem cells, the associated underlying gene-regulatory networks, and the behaviour and function of stem cells in adult tissues. One organ system in particular that we focus on is the neuroendocrine system – a collection of organs glands and hormones that interact to control important processes like growth, stress, reproduction and metabolism. Stem cells and progenitor cells in parts of the neuroendocrine system, such as the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, are of interest given their potential to control hormone secretion and dynamically respond to feedback from end-target organs.
About the project
In the central nervous system, a type of glial progenitor cell called oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs; also known as NG2-glia) differentiate into myelin-producing oligodendrocytes in a process that is essential for the normal function of neurons. We are interested in the potential role that NG2-glia - and other glia including microglia, astrocytes, and tanycytes - may have in regulating the function of the hypothalamus. In the clinic, deficiencies in pituitary hormones, such as growth hormone or follicle-stimulating hormone, are referred to as hypopituitarism, and we think that this may sometimes be caused by problems with the normal function of glial cells and their progenitors.
The broad aims of this project are to characterise hypothalamus function and brain glia populations in mouse models of hypothalamus disorders. The main methodologies you will use will be ‘wet lab’ techniques, including tissue dissection, microtomy, immunofluorescence, in situ hybridization, confocal microscopy and ELISA. You may also have the opportunity to perform primary tissue culture and electrophysiology. You will also perform image processing and statistical analysis of data.
Candidate background
The post holder should embody and demonstrate the Crick ethos and ways of working: bold, open and collegial. The candidate must be registered at a UK Higher Education Institution, studying in the UK and must have completed a minimum of two years’ undergraduate study in a relevant discipline, and on track to receive a final degree grade of 2:1 or 1. In addition, they should be able demonstrate the following experience and key competencies:
- This project would be suited to anyone with an interest in neuroscience, stem cell biology, genetics or neuroendocrinology. Ideally, you will be studying biology, biomedical science, medicine or similar. It is essential that you are highly motivated, eager to learn, and communicative.
- Good knowledge in relevant scientific area(s)
- Good written and spoken communication skills
- Ability to work independently and also capable of interacting within a group
References
1. Djogo, T., Robins, S.C., Schneider, S., Kryzskaya, D., Liu, X., Mingay, A., . . . Kokoeva, M.V. (2016)
Adult NG2-glia are required for median eminence-mediated leptin sensing and body weight control.
Cell Metabolism 23: 797–810. PubMed abstract
2. Galichet, C., Rizzoti, K. and Lovell-Badge, R. (2024)
Hypopituitarism in Sox3 null mutants correlates with altered NG2-glia in the median eminence and is influenced by aspirin and gut microbiota.
PLOS Genetics 20: e1011395. PubMed abstract