MSc/PhD positions are immediately available on the project entitled “Elucidation of the Human Heat Shock Protein 47 (HSP47) pH-Triggered Release from Collagen via Mutational Analysis“.

This project involves the mutagenesis of mouse/human HSP47 protein towards the elucidation of its binding and release behaviour to collagen. HSP47 is a molecular chaperone that assists collagen folding and transport during biosynthesis in the cell. Knocking out of the mouse hsp47 gene has been shown to lethally impair the development of embryos, preventing the secretion of correctly folded triple helical collagen molecules. Mutations in human hsp47 gene has been reported to be related to the severe form of osteogenesis imperfecta, a disease characterised by bone fragility and fractures that may be accompanied by bone deformity, dentinogenesis imperfecta, short stature, and shortened life span. HSP47 is also a potential target molecule for treatment of collagen-related diseases, such as fibrosis. In order to assist research in treatment strategies, the mechanistic behaviour of HSP47 must be completely solved first.

This project will involve site-directed mutagenesis to investigate HSP47 binding-and-release behaviour to collagen at the molecular level. Mutated proteins will be analysed using a number of techniques, such as binding assay, fluorescence-based pH titration, circular dichroism and collagen antifibrillisation assay.

Candidates are expected to have a strong background in molecular biology and biochemistry, particularly protein expression, purification, and analysis. Graduates with good BSc degree (CPA >3.00) are encouraged to apply. Scholarship is available for Malaysian students only.

Please contact Dr Mohd Firdaus Abdul Wahab (email firdausw@utm.my or office +607-555 7551).