Assessing memantine induced mitophagy in a neurodegenerative model of Drosophila

A consequence of aging is the increased risk of neurodegenerative disease. In the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases is the production of misfolded proteins which can clump together and interfere with normal cellular function. Mitochondria are highly important as they produce energy necessary for cell survival as well as regulate the controlled cell death process of apoptosis. Misfolded proteins are able to interact with mitochondria in such a way that dysregulates energy production, putting the cell at risk of undergoing cell death if not dealt with, thereby contributing to the decline of neurons seen in neurodegenerative disease. This project aims to investigate the induction of mitophagy, a pathway through which depolarised mitochondria are removed, in an in vivo model of Drosophila melangoster (common fruit fly). In so doing, we aim to better understand the effects of systemic mitophagy induction in a model of neurodegenerative disease.

Faculty Supervisor:

Angus McQuibban

Student:

Partner:

Stellenbosch University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Life Sciences (not health); Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Global Health

University:

University of Toronto

Program: