Dr. Shazia Shakoor

PhD Theme/Topic: Neurotoxic Effects of Chronic Statin Therapy: Molecular, Cellular, and Functional Implications for Neuronal Integrity and Nervous System Function.

Supervisor: Dr. Shazia Shakoor Professor/Associate Professor
Contact #: 0300-3408990
Email: shazia2304@yahoo.com
Campus/School/Dept: BUHSCK
RAC Approved Supervisor for Research Areas: Neurophysiology, Muscle Physiology

Supervisory Record:
PhD Produced:
PhD Enrolled:
MS/MPhil Produced: 10
MS/MPhil Enrolled: 01

Topic Brief Description:

Chronic statin therapy, widely prescribed for lipid regulation, has been associated with potential neurotoxic effects that may impact nervous system function. At the molecular level, statins can disrupt cholesterol synthesis, coenzyme Q10 production, and mitochondrial function, leading to oxidative stress and altered neuronal signaling. At the cellular level, these changes may impair neuronal membrane integrity, synaptic plasticity, and myelin maintenance, contributing to neuronal vulnerability. Functionally, prolonged exposure has been linked to cognitive disturbances, peripheral neuropathy, and altered neuromuscular transmission. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for balancing the cardiovascular benefits of statins against their potential risks to neuronal integrity and overall nervous system health.

Research Objectives/Deliverables:

1. To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which chronic statin therapy influences cholesterol synthesis, coenzyme Q10 levels, and mitochondrial function in neural tissues.
2. To evaluate the cellular effects of prolonged statin exposure on neuronal membrane integrity, synaptic plasticity, and myelin maintenance.
3. To assess the functional consequences of chronic statin use on nervous system performance, including cognition, peripheral nerve function, and neuromuscular transmission.
4. To correlate molecular and cellular alterations with observed neurofunctional outcomes associated with long-term statin therapy.
5. To provide evidence that supports risk–benefit optimization of statin therapy by identifying potential neurotoxic markers affecting neuronal integrity and nervous system health.          

Research Questions: 

1. How does chronic statin therapy alter cholesterol synthesis, coenzyme Q10 levels, and mitochondrial function in neural tissues at the molecular level?
2. What are the effects of prolonged statin exposure on neuronal membrane integrity, synaptic plasticity, and myelin maintenance at the cellular level?
3. What functional changes in nervous system performance—specifically cognition, peripheral nerve function, and neuromuscular transmission—are associated with long-term statin use?
4. Is there a relationship between molecular and cellular alterations induced by chronic statin therapy and the observed neurofunctional outcomes?
5. Which neurotoxic biomarkers can be identified to better evaluate the risk–benefit balance of statin therapy in relation to neuronal integrity and nervous system health? 

Candidate’s Eligibility Profile:

1. The applicant must have an MPhil/Equivalent degree in Physiology with CGPA > 3.0. Besides, applicants must have a strong background in neuro and muscle Physiology and related fields.
2. Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential. We value independence and responsibility while promoting teamwork and collaboration among colleagues.