Role of microglia-released microRNA in MND Pathology

Investigating how activated microglia and the microRNAs they release might contribute to the development of MND.

PhD Student: Libby Moody

Principal Investigator: Prof Majid Hafezparast

Lead Institution: University of Sussex

MND Association Funding: £107,509*

Funding dates: October 2020 - March 2024

* The Ann Merriman Memorial Studentship- supported by the East Sussex MND Association branch

About the project 

Microglia (immune cells in the brain) are activated to release a number of proteins and chemicals which modulate the function of neighbouring motor neurons but at high levels can damage these cells. Recent data show that lab-grown microglia also release a group of molecules known as microRNAs (miRNAs) with different expression in non-activated and activated states. There is increasing evidence that miRNAs released from microglia play an important role in cell-to-cell communication by modulating the expression of genes in surrounding cells. This PhD project will use mouse models of MND, cell and molecular biology techniques to identify the key disease-associated miRNAs and the genes targeted by these miRNAs.

What could this mean for MND research?

This PhD project will help to uncover more about the behaviour of activated microglia and the miRNAs they release in MND. It is hoped that it could help to identify biological changes caused by the miRNAs and shed light on disruptions within cells that underlie the development of the disease.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to MND research. I love working in a research lab and my PhD has helped me to develop as a scientist both in and out of the lab. I have gained so many technical and analytical skills that have helped me to become more confident and independent in my research. My PhD also allows me to share my work with other scientists and local communities to help to raise awareness of MND."

Project code: 897-792