Final Report Summary - ASTROFUNC (Molecular Studies of Astrocyte Function in Health and Disease)
Astrocytes are the most numerous cells in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) – yet their exact role(s) in both the healthy and diseased brain remain unclear. In this project we took a ‘bottom-up’ approach, in which we identified key molecular pathways controlling astrocyte function. Using advanced genetic tools (developed during this project), we manipulated selected proteins and monitored their effects on astrocyte function in vivo, using sophisticated microscopy techniques. Being able to assess astrocyte function in the healthy brain provides us with a baseline to understand the changes in astrocytes that occur in neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s), potentially allowing the identification of novel, alternative therapeutic targets.