Developing a high throughput in vitro method for testing pro-regenerative molecules

Multiple sclerosis is highly prevalent in Alberta and is characterized by loss of myelin (brain white matter) and myelin-producing cells, oligodendrocytes. This leads to neurodegeneration and symptoms like blurred vision, impaired cognition, loss of mobility and/or paralysis. Currently there are no treatments aimed to replace lost oligodendrocytes and myelin. This can be achieved by stimulating resident (existing) brain stem cells to regenerate oligodendrocytes, which could in turn replace lost myelin. The primary objective of this proposed project is to develop a robust high-throughput in vitro method for oligodendrocyte regeneration from brain stem cells. Such an approach is pre-requisite for efficient drug screening and subsequent commercialization of “hits” as novel pro-regenerative drugs. In turn, this will support the development of new and desperately needed remyelinating treatments for people with multiple sclerosis, yielding economic benefits and contributing to overall health outcomes.

Faculty Supervisor:

Anastassia Voronova

Student:

Partner:

adMare BioInnovations

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Alberta

Program: