Background

David graduated from the University of Stirling in 2013 with a BSc (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science. For his final year project he investigated SNP polymorphisms in the MYLK genes and associations with athletic performance. David went on to further this research and investigate copy number variation in these genes for his MPhil also at the University of Stirling. David is currently undertaking a PhD at Loughborough University as part of the Translational Chemical Biology Research Group under the co-supervision of Dr Sarabjit Mastana, Dr Liz Akam and Dr Martin Lindley

Project Information

How do PUFAs regulate genetic and epigenetic signatures in diverse population: Type 2 Diabetes patients and elite endurance values?

This project will investigate the epigenetic impact of dietary components (such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids) and high intensity exercise on gene expression, DNA methylation and histone modification. This work will have significance across a range of individuals from the ageing patient group through to the elite athlete in that the basic mechanism of epigenetics, once elucidatedcan be applied to specific populations. Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone modifications are increasingly considered to be important in phenotype transmission and the development of different diseases. However, there is currently limited knowledge about whether epigenetic factors influence the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and health and whether these can be modified by PUFAs.

Awards

David received the "Best Poster" prize at the Loughborough University Health and Wellbeing conference

Funding

David has received funding from:

• The National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care East Midlands (CLAHRC EM). 

• Loughborough University Health & Wellbeing Research Challenge Fund

• Silver Sponsorship from Primerdesign