Research team
Expertise
My research expertise focuses on astrocyte biology and the role of astrocytes in regulating synapses and neural circuits. I study how astrocytes interact with neurons and immune cells to shape synaptic function, plasticity and elimination, and how disruption of these processes contributes to brain disease. My work addresses both neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, and neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, with an emphasis on mechanisms underlying synapse loss and circuit dysfunction. Using molecular, cellular and in vivo approaches, I aim to understand how altered astrocyte–synapse interactions drive neurological pathology and to identify pathways that may be targeted for therapeutic intervention.
Targeting Microglial MHCII and Regulatory T Cells to Modulate Alzheimer's disease progression.
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive brain disorder marked by amyloid plaque build-up, inflammation, and cognitive decline. While brain-resident immune cells called microglia are known to play a central role in the disease, the contribution of the broader immune system—particularly CD4⁺ T cells—remains less clear. Emerging evidence shows that these T cells can enter the brain and interact with microglia, but whether this is beneficial or harmful is still unknown. One key molecule involved in this interaction is MHCII, which allows microglia to communicate with T cells. Preliminary findings from our lab suggest that T cells increase in the brain in response to Alzheimer's pathology, localize near MHCII-positive microglia, and can enhance microglial activity and the clearance of harmful proteins when stimulated. Based on this, we propose that interactions between microglia and T cells influence how the brain responds to disease. To test this, we will use mouse models to selectively disrupt or enhance these interactions and examine the effects on inflammation, plaque accumulation, and cognitive function. Overall, this project aims to clarify how immune responses shape Alzheimer's disease and may identify new, more targeted therapeutic strategies that act directly within the brain, with potential relevance for other neurodegenerative conditions.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Sokolova Dimitra
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project