To find out more about the role that TBK1 might play in changing the activity of microglia cells in MND and FTD.
Principal Investigator: Dr Owen Peters
Lead Institution: Cardiff University
MND Association Funding: £262,744
Funding dates: January 2024 - December 2026
About the project
Inflammation in the brain and spinal cord has been shown to be increased in people with MND and is thought to play a role in the onset and development of both MND and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). This project looks into a gene called TANK-Binding Kinase 1 (TBK1), which helps to control the inflammatory actions of microglia (an immune cell within the brain). Although it is still not known exactly how TBK1 regulates inflammation. Some people with MND/FTD have changes in the TBK1 gene which mean that the production and function of the TBK1 protein are disrupted. These changes in TBK1 might alter the behaviour of microglia. The researchers will investigate how TBK1 regulates microglia actions and which other compounds TBK1 interacts with.
What could this mean for MND research?
This project could shed more light on the role that TBK1 might play in microglia activity in MND and FTD. Uncovering more about how TBK1 is involved in these diseases could reveal other proteins and cell compounds that TBK1 interacts with to alter the behaviour of the microglia. It could also help reveal new immune mechanisms that could be targeted with potential treatments for MND and FTD.
Project code: 898-791