Investigating what makes some types of neurons more vulnerable to cell death in C9orf72 MND.
PhD Student: TBC
Principal Investigator: Dr Teresa Niccoli
Lead Institution: University College London
MND Association Funding: £139,603
Funding dates: September 2025 - February 2029
About the project
There are different types of neurons in the brain and spinal cord, and in MND some types of neurons are more likely to die than others. It is already known that changes in the C9orf72 gene, which is one of the most common genetic causes of MND, produces toxic proteins within cells. However, it is not yet known how changes in the C9orf72 gene make some neurons more vulnerable to dying than others. The purpose of this study is to understand what makes some types of neurons more vulnerable to cell death in C9orf72 MND. Using previously collected data, the researchers will explore the activity of genes within different types of vulnerable neurons from fruit flies with C9orf72 MND. By comparing the activity of genes within the vulnerable neurons to healthy neurons, they will identify important genes that are either too active or not active enough in the vulnerable neurons. They will then correct the activity of these genes back to within a healthy level and observe whether this helps the neurons to survive and makes the flies live for longer.
What could this mean for MND research?
This project will identify new genes that make some neurons more vulnerable to damage in C9orf72 MND, which will increase our understanding of neuronal death in MND. Confirming their findings in a mouse system and a human system will ensure relevance to MND research. The study may identify novel genes that can be targeted for therapeutic intervention in a clinical setting.
Project code: 2417-792
