Synergistic effects of biological sex and sleep loss in an AD mouse model.

Women have a two-fold risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) compared to men, though the cause of this risk remains largely unclear. Several studies have proposed female-specific risk factors (such as menopause) and modifiable risk factors (such as circadian disturbance), that could contribute to the exacerbation of AD pathology and symptoms through inflammatory mechanisms in the brain. Our proposed project aims to investigate whether increase inflammation experienced during menopause, in combination with circadian disruption, could potentially underlie an acceleration of brain aging and AD pathology. Our research will investigate the interactions between hormonal changes and sleep disruption, as well as the independent effects of both, to explore the underlying neural mechanisms to increased AD-risk in women. Findings from this Mitacs Globalink research project will be integrated into the intern’s dissertation that explores the contribution of biological sex (hormones and chromosomes) on AD vulnerability and neuroinflammation. Additionally, it may serve as initial data for future grant applications, that foster collaboration between the host and home institution, on sex-specific AD progression, and lay the groundwork for co-authored publications.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mallar Chakravarty

Student:

Partner:

University of Groningen

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

McGill University

Program: