Functional and structural characterization of clinically relevant amyloid fibrils

Irreversible, progressive, and incurable neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or Parkinson’s disease (PD), constitute severe challenges for the modern and, in particular, for the healthcare system. Recent reports suggest that worldwide >50 Mio. people and >10 Mio. people are living with AD or PD, respectively. Both diseases are related to protein misfolding and aggregation towards elongated and helical amyloid fibrils. However, although amyloid fibrils are considered pathological hallmarks for AD and PD, the mechanisms of how such fibrils hamper normal cellular function are largely unknown.

The long-term objective is to shed light on the molecular basis of neurodegenerative diseases, in particular AD and PD. Therefore, we integratively combine high-resolution structure determination of clinically relevant amyloid fibrils with modern biochemical in vitro and in vivo characterization. Our approach may elevate the understanding of the pathologic mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, which is essential to promote the rational search for novel, innovative drugs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Joel Watts

Student:

Partner:

Forschungszentrum Jülich

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Life Sciences (not health)

University:

University of Toronto

Program: