Synthesis and evaluation of novel multi-target compounds for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease It is often characterised by cognitive deficiency and memory loss.
Research Opportunities
Summary
The prevalence of AD is age-related and with an ageing world population and increased life expectancy, it is estimated that by 2050, there will be around 100 million AD patients. Hence it remains a primarily unmet medical need worldwide, while causing a huge financial burden for families, health care systems, and associated social care. Pathology of AD involves multiple and complex factors. There is no cure for this disease and there are currently four drugs in the clinic that manage only the symptoms of AD. Because of the multifactorial nature of AD, the well accepted theory of “one molecule and one target” approach in drug discovery has, so far, not provided any effective drugs to cure a complex disease like AD.
For the last two decades, the concept of a multi-target drug hypothesis has been gaining much attention among scientists working in drug design and discovery. Thus, by making a compound that can target more than one or two factors that contribute to AD, then we hypothesise that this approach would yield a more effective therapeutic drug. Furthermore, it would provide better patient compliance since taking only one tablet is required.
Recently, we have identified lead compounds with multi target properties. The latter include strong antioxidant properties, with the ability to provide cellular protection from oxidative stress and inhibitory activities against choline esterase enzymes. The latter are well-known factors contributing to AD. In this multidisciplinary project we aim to synthesise a library of novel compounds for optimum activity and to study the mechanism of action of the most active compound and to confirm the multi target directed hypothesis.
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Entry requirements
Entry Requirements for Research Degrees
Normal entry requirements are a first or upper second class honours degree from a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University.
Applicants holding other qualifications shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme.
Applicants will normally register for an MSc/PhD or MRes/PhD with transfer to PhD dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a Master’s degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a PhD, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise.
Some Research Degree Topics require employment experience, research experience and/or transcripts for international qualifications.
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English Language
Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in all elements, or an approved equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact researchdegrees@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Fees & Costs
For Academic Year 2023/2024
UK/EU Students
- Full time - £4,712 per academic year
- Part time MPhil/PhD - £2,830 per academic year
- Part time MRes/MSc by research - £2,356 per academic year
International Students
- Full time - £18,700 per academic year
- Part-time MPhil/PhD - £11,220 per academic year
- Part-time MRes/MSc by research - £9,350 per academic year
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How to Apply
Applications
All applications should be made via the University's online application for research students.
Before you apply, find out more about the application process, research proposal writing guides, routes and durations:
Our Research degrees usually start in February and October each year. There are no formal deadlines for you to submit your application, though we recommend you submit it as early as possible in order to ensure we can help you join us at your preferred time.
Completed application forms should be accompanied by:
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose, detailing why you would like to study this degree in the UK, and why you have chosen RGU.
- A short research proposal, in the range of 1,500 - 3,000 words, containing a rationale and background, study aims and objectives, a literature review, proposed research methods and a full reference list.
Further guidance on the application process:
English Language Requirements
All applicants whose first language is not from a recognised English speaking country will be asked to provide evidence of their English language skills as part of their offer to study at RGU.
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