Neuroinflammatory pathways in neurodegenerative diseases

This group focuses on unravelling the role of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases, to better understand disease progression and to find new strategies for better treatments.

Immunostaining with microglia and astrocytes. Photo. — Different aspects of neuroinflammation can be studied under the microscope. Here, astrocytes (red) and microglial (green) cells approach a plaque (blue) in an experimental model of Alzheimer's disease. Photo: Yiyi Yang

Neuroinflammation, orchestrated by activated glial cells, plays a significant role in neurodegenerative disorders. However, it is still not clear whether neuroinflammation contributes to or is a result of neuropathology, and it differs between diagnoses. To aid future drug development and diagnostics an increased understanding of the involved mechanisms, genetics and temporal perspectives is highly warranted. The researchers included in this SIG conduct clinical and preclinical research on neuroinflammatory events implicated in common neurodegenerative disorders. We use methods spanning from cell cultures studies and animal models to analysis of clinical samples and imaging.

In alignment with MultiPark's strategic goals

To understand the origins and progression of neurodegenerative disease (e.g. by deriving new knowledge from experimental models and unique human cohorts).
To create new therapeutic approaches for prevention, disease modification and management of unmet medical needs (e.g. developing more effective symptomatic, new disease modifying or plasticity-enhancing treatments).

Overarching goals

Increase the understanding of neuroinflammatory processes in the etiology, manifestation and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Develop new strategies targeting neuroinflammation with the aim to improve prognosis, diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Promote interdisciplinary scientific interaction and collaboration within the field of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases.

Planned activities

Monthly combined journal club and project presentation seminar where PhD students and postdocs present.
Bi-annual gathering for discussing new scientific and/or technical directions with themed internal and external speakers. These events are open to the entire MultiPark and includes a mingle.