Investigating the Role of Oxysterols in Cholesterol Metabolism and Myelin Maintenance

Cholesterol is a vital lipid that plays a key role in maintaining cellular structure and function, particularly in the central nervous system. A crucial component of myelin—the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibres—cholesterol supports nerve conduction, cell signalling, and overall brain function. However, when cholesterol undergoes oxidation, it forms oxysterols, a diverse group of bioactive molecules with distinct roles in cellular physiology.

This project aims to explore the intricate relationship between oxysterols, cholesterol metabolism, and myelin maintenance. Oxysterols are produced in the body under normal and pathological conditions, particularly in the brain, where they can influence various processes such as lipid homeostasis, inflammation, and cell signalling. Recent studies suggest that oxysterols may play both protective and detrimental roles in myelin, depending on their specific structures and concentrations.

The research will focus on how different oxysterols impact cholesterol metabolism, the synthesis and repair of myelin, and the regulation of neuronal health. The project will use invitro cell culture models to investigate cholesterol metabolism. Using advanced mass spectrometry techniques, project will profile cholesterol d oxysterol pathways. By examining the levels of oxysterols in the context of neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), this project will help uncover how altered cholesterol metabolism and myelin degeneration may contribute to disease progression.

By enhancing our understanding of oxysterols' roles in cholesterol metabolism and myelin biology, this project hopes to contribute to the development of novel approaches for treating demyelinating disorders and advancing overall neurological health.

References
1.Ana Reis, Irundika H.K. Dias; Oxysterol sulfates in fluids, cells and tissues: how much do we know about their clinical significance, biological relevance and biophysical implications? Essays Biochem 2024; EBC20230090.
2. Borah, K., Rickman, O. J., Voutsina, N., Ampong, I., Gao, D., Baple, E. L., Dias, I. H. K., Crosby, A. H. & Griffiths, H. R. (2020) A quantitative LC-MS/MS method for analysis of mitochondrial -specific oxysterol metabolism, Redox Biol, 101595. PMID: 32574926

Candidates should have been awarded, or expect to achieve, EITHER:

a] a First or Upper Second Class award in their Undergraduate Degree (Bachelors or UG Masters) from a UK institution, in a subject judged by Aston to be relevant to the proposed research.

OR

b] a Merit (or above)* in a Postgraduate Masters degree in a relevant subject AND an Undergraduate Degree (Bachelors or UG Masters), both from UK institutions.

*where appropriate.

Qualifications from overseas institutions will be also considered but performance must be equivalent to that described above, and the University reserves the right to ascertain this equivalence according to its own criteria.

Financial Support

This project covers the Home tuition fees. Candidates who do not have Home status will be responsible for the difference in tuition fees. Currently, the difference between ‘Home’ and the ‘Overseas’ tuition fees is £17,712 for 2026/7.  

Overseas Applicants

Overseas applicants may apply for this studentship but will need to pay the difference between the ‘Home’ and the ‘Overseas’ tuition fees. Currently, the difference between ‘Home’ and the ‘Overseas’ tuition fees is £17,712 for 2026/7. As part of the application, you will be required to confirm that you will provide this additional funding. Please indicate this on the application form in the funding section.
 

Apply through our PhD application form.

When applying:

• For University College, please select Health and Life Sciences
• For Degree Programme, please select Research Health Sciences (including Optometry, Pharmacy, and Psychology Research Areas) and your preferred entry date.

Apply now

If you require further information about the application process please contact the Postgraduate Admissions team at pgr_admissions@aston.ac.uk

Supervisor: Dr Irundika Dias

Associate Supervisor: Dr Dan Ma

Contact information

For formal enquiries about this project contact Dr Irundika Dias at diashki1@aston.ac.uk

PhD programmes are for those who are seeking to develop greater in-depth knowledge in a specific area. Completing this level of study is about making an original contribution to knowledge, making new discoveries and developing lifelong skills. 

Studying a PhD is great route into academia and industries that are centred on research and innovation. Areas with a demand for very high level and specialised research skills often demand PhDs.

In addition to this specialist knowledge, PhD education will help you to develop a set of valuable transferrable skills. The very nature of studying an intensive research degree will enable you to become a team player, develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and advanced presentation and communication skills.