Unveiling Molecular Mechanisms of the Beneficial Impact of Exercise on Cancer Metabolism PhD 36 months PHD Program By Loughborough University |Top Universities

Program overview

Main Subject

Engineering - Chemical

Degree

PhD

Study Level

PHD

Study Mode

On Campus

Unveiling Molecular Mechanisms of the Beneficial Impact of Exercise on Cancer Metabolism PhD

Exercise and physical activity are known to impart beneficial effects throughout the different stages of cancer treatment, including reduced risk of primary disease and prevention of secondary metastasis, for various types of cancers. Many pre-clinical studies on cancer patients have shown the positive outcomes of exercise not only on their general physiological conditions such as physical function, body composition and sleep, but also on tumour growth and metastasis.

Although a growing body of evidence indicates improved clinical outcomes from regular exercise in cancer patients, the underlying molecular mechanism of its beneficial effects on cancer prognosis is elusive. The impact of exercise on cellular metabolism is also more profound and quantitative than on other cellular networks. Thus, a detailed, systems-level mechanistic understanding of exercise on the metabolic behaviour of cancer cells can lead to developing exercise-based intervention strategies or treatment procedures for cancer patients.

This project, aims to apply both computational and experimental approaches in cancer systems biology and metabolic engineering to develop systems-level mathematical models of cancer cell metabolism for unveiling the underlying molecular mechanisms of the beneficial impact of exercise on the metabolic phenotypes of cancer cells.

The project will leverage systems-level, high throughput experimental ‘omics’ data from a 3D in vitro organoid model of cancer cells cocultured with skeletal muscle myotubes. In addition, state-of-the-art 13C metabolic flux analysis technique will be implemented to capture metabolic behaviour of cancer cells under exercised conditions. This information, together with a plethora of literature data will be used to develop the model that can ultimately lead to the development of exercise-based cancer treatment and prevention strategies.

This project provides an excellent opportunity to work with multidisciplinary research groups within the Chemical Engineering Department and in the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences at Loughborough University. You will be joining a vibrant and multidisciplinary research community, focusing on tackling some of the most pressing and demanding societal challenges related to sustainability, environment and human health through harnessing the power of machine learning, systems biology, synthetic biology, and metabolic engineering. Due to the involvement of an industrial partner, the project offers the candidate a unique opportunity not only to learn and master cutting-edge research tools but also to obtain hands-on training in the industry.

Program overview

Main Subject

Engineering - Chemical

Degree

PhD

Study Level

PHD

Study Mode

On Campus

Unveiling Molecular Mechanisms of the Beneficial Impact of Exercise on Cancer Metabolism PhD

Exercise and physical activity are known to impart beneficial effects throughout the different stages of cancer treatment, including reduced risk of primary disease and prevention of secondary metastasis, for various types of cancers. Many pre-clinical studies on cancer patients have shown the positive outcomes of exercise not only on their general physiological conditions such as physical function, body composition and sleep, but also on tumour growth and metastasis.

Although a growing body of evidence indicates improved clinical outcomes from regular exercise in cancer patients, the underlying molecular mechanism of its beneficial effects on cancer prognosis is elusive. The impact of exercise on cellular metabolism is also more profound and quantitative than on other cellular networks. Thus, a detailed, systems-level mechanistic understanding of exercise on the metabolic behaviour of cancer cells can lead to developing exercise-based intervention strategies or treatment procedures for cancer patients.

This project, aims to apply both computational and experimental approaches in cancer systems biology and metabolic engineering to develop systems-level mathematical models of cancer cell metabolism for unveiling the underlying molecular mechanisms of the beneficial impact of exercise on the metabolic phenotypes of cancer cells.

The project will leverage systems-level, high throughput experimental ‘omics’ data from a 3D in vitro organoid model of cancer cells cocultured with skeletal muscle myotubes. In addition, state-of-the-art 13C metabolic flux analysis technique will be implemented to capture metabolic behaviour of cancer cells under exercised conditions. This information, together with a plethora of literature data will be used to develop the model that can ultimately lead to the development of exercise-based cancer treatment and prevention strategies.

This project provides an excellent opportunity to work with multidisciplinary research groups within the Chemical Engineering Department and in the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences at Loughborough University. You will be joining a vibrant and multidisciplinary research community, focusing on tackling some of the most pressing and demanding societal challenges related to sustainability, environment and human health through harnessing the power of machine learning, systems biology, synthetic biology, and metabolic engineering. Due to the involvement of an industrial partner, the project offers the candidate a unique opportunity not only to learn and master cutting-edge research tools but also to obtain hands-on training in the industry.

Admission Requirements

3.2+
6.5+
92+
Applicants will normally need to hold, or expect to gain, at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree (or UK equivalent) in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Microbiology, Systems Biology, Synthetic Biology, or an appropriate Master’s degree.

10 Feb 2025
3 Years
Oct

Tuition fees

International
28,600

Scholarships

Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.

To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:

More programs from the university

PHD programs 368