Gibbet Hill University of Warwick
Subject to funding being awarded. There is potential funding to recruit a Research Fellow on Grade 6 for 36 months, but this may need to be reduced to 34.5 months depending on the starting salary.
Funder: MRC
Title: Ga-selective adenosine A1 receptor agonists as novel analgesics devoid of cardiorespiratory depression
Project dates: 01.04.2025 – 31.03.28 (est. start date)
Gα-selective adenosine A1 receptor agonists as novel analgesics
KEYWORDS: – adenosine, pain, analgesia
We have discovered a novel painkilling mechanism activated by an unusual agonist of the adenosine A1 receptor (A1R). This agonist, BnOCPA, seems only to activate one of the six Gi/o Gα subunits that adenosine receptors can couple to – the Gob subunit. Since this subunit is found at low levels in the heart, BnOCPA does not affect blood pressure or heart rate, but still acts as a potent analgesic in a preclinical model of neuropathic pain.
In this project, funded by the MRC, we will investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of BnOCPA and a related derivative, and test BnOCPA in neuropathic and inflammatory pain models.
The successful applicant will have a PhD or equivalent in neuroscience or a related discipline. Candidates should have a background in pain physiology or a related biomedical track record and be capable of electrophysiological recordings and/or behavioural assessment of analgesia.
The project involves three labs at the University of Warwick (Frenguelli, Wall and Zhang). Each group brings specific expertise to the project and different aspects will be overseen as required.
What scientific question will you investigate? / Outline of the project aims
The three groups are part of the Neuroscience Research Cluster in the School of Life Sciences at Warwick University. We are a diverse group of neuroscientists who study a variety of physiological and pathological process occurring in the nervous system. Through in silico, molecular, cellular and whole animal approaches, we investigate fundamental properties of synaptic transmission and plasticity, the influence of pathogenic proteins, and the impact and mechanisms of stress, pain and epilepsy.
About the research group
The labs are located in the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research Building (IBRB), a new £54m state-of-the-art research facility that combines cutting edge research infrastructure with award-winning architecture.
For more information about our lab visit:
For details of the BnOCPA paper visit:
Any requests for further information about the role can be directed to Bruno Frenguelli; b.g.frenguelli@warwick.ac.uk
We and the wider University of Warwick environment offer substantial opportunities for professional development including regular opportunities to present research finding at internal, local, national and international conferences.