Genetic and environmental risk factors that combine with SARM1 in MND

Identifying genetic forms of MND where SARM1 is activated.

PhD Student: Adina Zhao 

Principal Investigator: Prof Michael Coleman

Lead Institution: University of Cambridge

MND Association Funding: £138,658

Funding dates: February 2024 - July 2027

About the project 

SARM1 is a protein that can be activated by multiple genetic and environmental risk factors. When activated it causes axons (the long extensions of nerve cells responsible for sending messages) to die in a number of neurodegenerative diseases including MND.    Previous research has revealed that blocking SARM1 in models can prevent the death of axons and potentially provide lifelong protection of nerve cells. This project will use models of MND to identify specific forms of MND in which SARM1 is activated. Once the researchers find the forms of MND where blocking SARM1 may be most beneficial, they will then develop of new testing system to help identify potential drugs which can block SARM1.  

What could this mean for MND research?

There is a growing evidence base to suggest that MND is not a single disease, but a collection of many diseases which all result in motor neuron death. This means that different treatments may be more beneficial for different forms of the disease. This project aims to find the forms of MND which may benefit the most from blocking SARM1. The aim is that targeting these specific forms will increase the likelihood of success when developing and testing new potential treatments. Once the specific forms of MND have been identified, the projects will start to test potential treatments which block SARM1 and potentially slow or prevent motor neuron death.

Project code: 2326-792