Astrocyte to iOligodendrocyte reprogramming for CNS repair

In multiple sclerosis, the protective coating around nerve cells called myelin and the brain cells that make myelin, called oligodendrocytes, are lost. In addition, research has shown that astrocytes, another type of brain cell, may have a negative impact on recovery in MS. Our project takes on a two-birds-with-one-stone approach to combat MS by delivering genes to the astrocytes to force them to convert into oligodendrocytes. We have shown that in cells we can make different types of oligodendrocytes by using different genes to force conversion. This project performs the conversion in an animal model of MS. This will let us determine whether our newly created oligodendrocytes work properly and if they can help an animal recover. Our knowledge from these experiments will help give us an idea of whether this conversion strategy could be a new type of therapy and which genes are best to use.

Faculty Supervisor:

Maryam Faiz

Student:

Partner:

Ontario Institute of Regenerative Medicine

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Toronto

Program: