Targeting muscle-liver crosstalk in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis

The incidence of obesity-related complications, including type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), is on the rise. MASH is projected to impact 100 million people globally by 2030 and has become a leading cause of liver-related mortality. Despite this, treatment options remain limited. Traditionally, drug development for MASH has focused on liver fat and fibrosis. However, the complex aetiology of obesity-related disease involves multiple organs. Understanding how inter-organ crosstalk contributes to the onset, progression, or resolution of MASH can lead to innovative therapeutic approaches.

This project will explore the interplay between skeletal muscle and liver in the context of MASH. Skeletal muscle health is crucial for metabolic homeostasis and peripheral insulin sensitivity. While muscle dysfunction and atrophy have been associated with MASH progression, the underlying physiologic and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. The successful candidate will establish cell models of muscle-liver crosstalk to investigate MASH disease mechanisms and evaluate emerging therapeutics.

The student will learn a variety of lab techniques (cell culture, molecular biology, stable isotope tracing, flow cytometry) and transferable skills (statistics, project management, writing, public outreach and engagement), and will have the opportunity to present their work at international conferences and publish peer reviewed manuscripts. Formal module-based training is available in the first years of the PhD as outlined here.

Research environment: The Shannon lab is based in the UCD Conway Institute, a richly collaborative interdisciplinary research centre supporting a vibrant community of 100 faculty, 100 postdoctoral fellows and 250 graduate students. Our lab is also part of the Diabetes Complications Research Centre.

Required qualifications and experience: The candidate should be highly motivated and passionate about research and have an MSc or BSc (minimum 2.1) in Physiology, Health Sciences, Cell Biology, Pharmacology or similar.

To apply: Send CV, cover letter, and references to Christopher.shannon@ucd.ie.

Informal enquiries welcome.