Genomic and functional analysis of monocyte-derived cells and microglia during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

• Applicant: Professor Alexander Mildner, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Molecular and Cellular Neurology and Neuropathology ; Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2016 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 287037189

Myeloid cells such as monocytes as well as microglia play a potentially pathological role in the central nervous system during the development of multiple sclerosis (MS) or its animal model experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), but how they contribute to disease progression is still unclear. Within this research grant we aim to understand the temporal and molecular changes of monocytes and microglia during EAE development in mice. We hope to identify a characteristic functional signature in monocytes or microglia, which can be used to specifically interfere or promote certain myeloid differentiation programs to open the way for new therapeutical options to treat MS.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Israel
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Ido Amit, Ph.D.
• Co-Investigator: Professor Dr. Achim Leutz