Adenosine is a vital signalling molecule that plays important roles in normal and aberrant brain function. An abiding area of uncertainty is the cellular sources and mechanisms of adenosine release. We are now in a uniquely advantageous position to study this problem as we have developed novel technology to measure directly activity-dependent adenosine release from in-vitro rodent brain slices. Our measurements of adenosine have cast doubt on the entrenched consensus- that adenosine cannot be released by exocytosis (a universal mechanism of release). We therefore aim to demonstrate the cellular source of adenosine and whether or not direct exocytotic release of adenosine occurs in a brain region called the cerebellum. This demonstration has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of adenosine signalling by demonstrating that a hitherto largely discounted class of mechanism does indeed play a role. We shall then characterize important properties of adenosine signalling such as: how it depends upon patterns of neural activity; how it can be modulated; how adenosine diffuses to inhibit signalling between neighbouring neurones; and how far and for how long this inhibitory action extends. We shall create a detailed computational model that will aid our comprehension of how adenosine controls information flow in cerebellum.

Phyllostictine A (PA) is the most potent member of a new class of natural product isolated from the fungus phyllosticta cirsii that displays strong herbicidal activity and is an exciting new lead in crop protection. Martin Riemer (PhD 2014, University of Potsdam, Germany) will undertake the first chemical synthesis of phyllostictine A (PA) at the University of Warwick, UK and participate in a multi-disciplinary project that spans the interface between chemistry and biology. PA constitutes a formidable synthetic challenge and its synthesis will require him to develop a variety of new chemical reactions and processes. Emphasis will be placed on sustainable, catalytic transformations and on adhering to the principles of the ‘ideal’ synthesis (e.g. atom, step and redox economy), work which builds directly on the applicant’s skills and expertise. Through a secondment to Rothamsted Research, Riemer will broaden his knowledge base by testing a selection of synthetic analogues against invasive weeds. Taken together, these activities will advance our understanding of the mode of action of PA, and pave the way for the development of simplified analogues for use in agriculture. Moreover, through the planned training and mentoring activities, Riemer will develop into an outstanding early career researcher of great potential.

This proposal presents unique approaches for the characterization of charged interfaces and interfacial phenomena at the nanoscale in ionic liquid (IL) media, through the implementation of innovative, quantitative high resolution scanning probe (electrochemical) microscopy techniques. The overarching goal is to introduce new methodology that will enable a comprehensive understanding of interfacial phenomena in these neoteric solvents and bring major new insights on the functional properties of surfaces and nanomaterials. The scientific scope of this project involves: (i) the characterization and mapping of the electrical double layer at IL/electrode interfaces; (ii) visualization of reactivity at the nanoscale using functional imaging techniques and; (iii) single-entity electrochemistry in ILs, from individual nanoparticles (NPs) to single molecules. The reactivity mapping and single NP studies will focus on assessing the electrocatalytic activity of novel nanomaterials (e.g., graphene, nanotubes, metal and metal-oxide NPs) towards the hydrogen evolution and oxygen reduction reactions, which are of fundamental and technological (e.g., fuel cells, lithium-air batteries, water splitting etc.) importance. The research proposal is highly interdisciplinary, and there is a natural synergistic fit between the Fellow’s profile and activities at the Host Warwick group. The proposal draws on Fellow’s strong background in electrochemistry, particularly his expertise in applying ILs in fundamental and applied electrochemical research, which will be married with the world-leading research on innovative nanoscale electrochemical imaging techniques developed at Warwick. With considerable support and world-class expertise from the Host group and its collaborators, this project will provide the applicant, Dr. Cameron Bentley, with an outstanding opportunity to develop personally and professionally, by pioneering a new area of research in a new geographic location.