Project details
Skeletal muscle (SkM) performs a crucial role in movement and athletic performance, however there are distinct molecular and phenotypic differences between the sexes. Recently, the debate regarding sex-based differences in athletic performance has been reignited following the inclusion of transgender athletes in competitive sporting events. Subsequently the overall aim of this project is to gain a greater understanding of sex variations in SkM and to what degree these differences are driven by specific sex hormones.
In humans, males possess greater absolute force production likely due to a higher proportion of type II (fast) twitch fibres which possess larger cross-sectional areas. Conversely, female SkM has a higher expression of lipid metabolism associated genes, which together with the increased distribution of type I (slow twitch) fibres increases resistance to fatigue. However, the mechanisms by which these differences occur are not fully understood. Furthermore, there is currently a lack of empirical evidence regarding how the biological events that underpin gender transition in SkM may induce a competitive physical advantage or potentially contribute to negative health outcomes.
Ultimately, there is a clear requirement for robust data to inform the development of more precise participation guidelines. To date, the majority of studies investigating gender transition within musculoskeletal function have either exploited animal models (whereby inter-species translation of outputs is poor), or human interventions conducted after gender re-assignment has been initiated. In vivo assessment of gender transition whereby two individuals of identical sex, genetic and environmental backgrounds simultaneously either undergo transition or remain their biological sex is an experimental impossibility. However, this is feasible in in vitro modelling. As such there is a clear need for the development of high-throughput human SkM models which recapitulate sex differences.
We therefore have three main objectives; Objective 1) to quantify molecular differences in skeletal muscle tissue between the sexes, Objective 2) develop two high-throughput in vitro human SkM models: one male and one female, Objective 3) to further develop the model sophistication, incorporating a capacity to assess performance benefits following hormonal gender transition.
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
Entry requirements for United Kingdom
Potential applicants should have at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in sport and exercise science, human physiology, biochemistry or a related subject. A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the above areas will be an advantage.
English language requirements
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).
Fees and funding
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment and operating University facilities such as the library, IT equipment and other support services. University fees and charges can be paid in advance and there are several methods of payment, including online payments and payment by instalment. Fees are reviewed annually and are likely to increase to take into account inflationary pressures.
The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of is £19,237 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees.
How to apply
All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select Sport Exercise and Health Sciences. Please quote the advertised reference number: SSEHS/HFDAL in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.
The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.
