The University of Sheffield
Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health
Department of Infection & Immunity
The role of epidermal zinc levels in determining skin barrier function and the development
of inflammatory skin conditions
Supervisor: Dr Simon Danby and Prof Michael J. Cork
Project:
Atopic dermatitis/eczema (AD) is a chronic, relapsing, inflammatory disease of the
skin, which is characterized by xerosis, pruritus, and erythematous lesions. The
prevalence of AD is high, affecting 15–30% of children and 2–10% of adults. It is a
disease that can cause enormous suffering at a crucial time in a child’s development.
The primary event in the development of AD is breakdown of the ‘ skin barrier’
(formed by the intact stratum corneum, SC). A dysfunctional skin barrier permits the
penetration of irritants and allergens, which subsequently trigger immune system
hyper reactivity. AD is the first step along the atopic march leading to the
development of food allergy, asthma, and allergic rhinitis. Together these disorders
affect more than 50% of children.
The aim of this project is to investigate the role of zinc, specifically zinc levels within
the skin, on skin barrier function and the development and severity of AD. The project
comprises 2 related themes: (1) a clinical audit of zinc levels, skin barrier function, and
AD severity in human patients and age matched controls and; (2) an in vitro
investigation of the effect of zinc on Toll Like Receptor (TLR) function in human
keratinocytes. A diverse range of techniques will be involved from the non-invasive
assessment of the biophysical properties of human skin in vivo to the culture of
primary human keratinocyte cells and analysis of gene expression and protein levels
in these cells using real-time RT-PCR and ELISA respectively. Training in the
techniques involved will be provided.
This multi-disciplinary project is ideal for someone with an interest in skin and a desire
to improve the lives of patients with AD through research.
Entry Requirements:
Candidates must have a first or upper second class honors degree or significant
research experience.
Enquiries:
Interested candidates should in the first instance contact Dr Simon Danby
(s.danby@sheffield.ac.uk).
How to apply:
Please complete a University Postgraduate Research Application form and attach at
least two references to your application. To complete the application form please
visit: www.shef.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/apply.
Please clearly state the prospective main supervisor in the respective box and select
‘Infection & Immunity’ as the department.
Website: http://www.sheffield.ac.uk/faculty/medicine-dentistryhealth/graduateschool/prospectivepg/vacancies/ii