Investigating the role of an RNA molecule called NEAT1 plays in MND.
PhD Student: Ruaridh Lang
Principal Investigator: Dr Tatyana Shelkovnikova
Lead Institution: University of Sheffield
MND Association Funding: £114,917*
Funding dates: October 2023 - March 2027
*Supported by The Steel Charitable Trust and The William and Mabel Morris Charitable Trust
About the project
NEAT1 is an RNA molecule present in most cells in our body. NEAT1 exists in two forms which have different structures and functions. In most cases of MND, there is a loss of function of a protein called TDP-43. TDP-43 controls the amount of different types of NEAT1 and the loss of function can lead to more of one form of NEAT1 and less of the other form. It is thought that this imbalance in forms of NEAT1 might be the link between abnormal energy balance and metabolism in MND. This project aims to investigate the role that one form of NEAT1 plays in MND using cell models of motor neurons and astrocytes (another type of brain cell).
What could this mean for MND research?
This study will increase our understanding of MND, especially if NEAT1 is linked to abnormal energy balance and metabolism in MND, an area which is still not completely understood. It may also help to establish whether NEAT1 may be a promising therapeutic target in MND, where researchers would try to correct or prevent the changes from happening. This means that targeting this process could help to prevent abnormal energy balance/metabolism in MND.
Resources
Project code: 910-792
