Bioenergetic failure of neuro-glial cell networks in small vessel pathology (A07)

• Subject Area: Molecular and Cellular Neurology and Neuropathology
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 548585053

A07 investigates how the vascular pathology in small vessel disease (SVD) causes localized energy failure in neuron-glial networks thus resulting in neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration. It examines how capillary rarefaction impairs oxygen and nutrient supply, especially in metabolically vulnerable neurons and oligodendrocytes. Using in vivo imaging, ATP biosensors, and omics-guided profiling, the project maps bioenergetic stress in brain tissue and tests protective strategies to enhance mitochondrial resilience and maintain axonal and myelin integrity during SVD progression.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1744: Compartmentalized cellular networks in neurovascular diseases
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Martin Dichgans; Professor Dr. Thomas Misgeld