Postdoc Renal Nanomedicine | Radboud University Medical Centre

Project: Renal nanomedicine

Targeting of ultrasound-sensitive siRNA-loaded micro bubbles as research tool and therapeutic agent in renal disease.

SiRNA injection holds great promise to knockdown renal proteins in proximal tubules and, based on our preliminary data, the collecting duct, but its in vivo use is far from optimal and lacks tissue-specific targeting. State of the art micro bubbles and ultrasound technology, in which infused micro bubble-encapsulated siRNA is tissue-specifically released with local application of non-invasive ultrasound, enhances cellular uptake of siRNAs and has been shown to improve siRNA targeting in the treatment of cancer and inflammation. However, this promising technique has not been implemented yet to target proteins in renal disorders. The Transient Receptor Potential channel C6 (TRPC6) is expressed in the glomerulus and a reduced expression of TRPC6 has been suggested to reduce proteinuria. Proteinuria is a hallmark of chronic kidney disease, which affects about 10% of the general population and causes significant morbidity and mortality. The AQP2 water channel is expressed in the collecting duct and its overexpression causes hyponatremia in congestive heart failure and liver cirrhosis. In this interdisciplinary project, combining the expertises of Drs Versluis (TU-Twente) and De Jong (Erasmus-Rotterdam) on micro bubble physics with those of Drs Deen and Nijenhuis (RUNMC) on the fundamental and clinical (patho)physiology of the kidney, our goals are to:

- Determine the proper conditions for renal ultrasound-mediated targeting of TRPC6 and AQP2 siRNAs using micro bubbles

- Analyze the renal targeting and knockdown efficiency of TRPC6 and AQP2

- Validate TRPC6 as a therapeutic target in proteinuria using siRNA-micro bubbles technology We anticipate that this innovative project will yield important advances in renal research, therapies and, ultimately, patient care.

Tasks and responsibilities

Major research responsibilities for this position:

1. Execution of TOP level research using multi-disciplinary approaches

2. In vitro selection of siRNAs, cell culture and immunoblotting

3. Physiological and immunohistochemical analysis of the kidney of mice

4. Data analysis and interpretation

5. Contribution towards preparation and submission of manuscripts

6. Presentation of data and communication with research partners

Profile

- PhD in biomedical/physiological sciences or related field

- Strong proficiency in molecular, cellular and/or animal physiology (of the kidney)

- Permit to work with mice

- Feeling for/interest in physics (of micro bubbles)

- Good track record of scientific publications

- Structured working style

- Other important qualities of the appointee will be enthusiasm, motivation, flexibility, willingness to learn, and the ability to work and interact with others in an energetic and supportive research group

Organization

The department of Physiology has a long-standing tradition in studying renal water, solute and energy physiology and build up a substantial know-how and infrastructure in the field of molecular, cellular and animal physiology of these processes. The department is, together with basic science and research-oriented clinical departments of the Radboud University Nijmegen, housed in the "Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences (NCLMS)", which integrates diverse scientific expertises in molecular and medical science for the advancement of innovation in translational research.

Comments and contact information

What we offer:

- Exciting and innovative project.

- Stimulating and productive scientific environment in an international setting.

- Salary and contract are based on research experience and qualifications. (salary scale 10, max € 55,700 gross per year at full employment incl. vacation bonus and end of year payments (according to CAO-RUNMC).

Applicants should include a letter of intent outlining special interest in the position, overall related qualifications, experience and career goals, a curriculum vitae and names and addresses of professional references in the application.

The position is open until filled.

Detailed information about the department can also be found at the Physiomics website.

Additional information about the vacancy can be obtained from Prof. Peter MT Deen via Αυτή η διεύθυνση Email προστατεύεται από τους αυτοματισμούς αποστολέων ανεπιθύμητων μηνυμάτων. Χρειάζεται να ενεργοποιήσετε τη JavaScript για να μπορέσετε να τη δείτε.. (Use this email address only for information. For application use the Apply button).