Risk vs. Protection: How Microglia Shape Neuronal Survival in Alzheimer’s disease

Project Code

MRCNMH26Ex Piers

Project Type

Wet lab

Research Theme

Neuroscience and Mental Health

Project Summary Download

Summary

Genetic variants in TREM2 and PLCG2 alter microglial responses in Alzheimer’s disease, but the consequences on neurons remain unclear. This project will use cutting-edge human stem cell models to compare microglia carrying pathogenic versus protective variants, to understand how altered gene regulation affects microglial states and influences neuronal health. The student will combine transcriptomics and functional co-culture assays to uncover how microglia shape neural circuits in disease. This interdisciplinary project offers training in stem cell biology, neuroimmunology, functional neuroscience, and computational biology within a vibrant cross-institutional environment.

Lead Supervisor

Dr Thomas Piers

Lead Supervisor Email

t.piers@exeter.ac.uk

University Affiliation

Exeter