Characterising a novel neuroimmune pathway to treat neurodegenerative disease

Project Code

MRCNMH24Ex Witton

Research Theme

Neuroscience and Mental Health

Full Project Description

Please download the below document for a full project description and to see the full supervisory team.

Summary

Microglia are brain-resident immune cells. Alongside conventional molecular signals, evidence suggests that specific patterns of brain activity can control microglia function. We have found that a type of brain activity activated during cognition (called gamma oscillations) signals to microglia via a receptor subgroup, which may drive a neuroprotective response. This project will uncover how this signalling works to reveal drug targets for neurodegenerative disease.

Lead Supervisor

Dr Jonathan Witton

Lead Supervisor Email

j.witton@exeter.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Exeter