© Manu Friederich / Universität Bern
ESR 6 vision / project
ESR 6
Age-induced changes in gene and microRNA expression at the mouse blood-brain barrier
Objectives
Identify, using RNAseq, age-associated changes in cerebral endothelial cell (CEC) mRNA and miR levels in mouse brain microvessels. Select specific age-deregulated miRs and mRNAs and determine their role in cellular function in vitro using a combinatorial RNAseq and bioinformatic approach. Validate the actions of specific age-deregulated miRs on CEC function in vitro, in particular on inflammation- and development-related genes. Confirm age-induced changes of selected miR/target gene pairs in their levels by in situ hybridization or qPCR (miR) and immunohistochemistry (target gene).
Expected Results
Profile of changes in gene and miR expression levels in cerebral endothelial cells during normal ageing that may be linked to alterations of BBB function. Validation of age-associated changes in miRs and their target genes at the protein level in CECs in situ; and Identification of cerebral endothelial cellular pathways affected by miRs/mRNAs deregulated during normal ageing and comparison with those critical for development/inflammation
Hosting institution
The Open University, Department of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences, Blood-Brain barrier Group, Milton Keynes, UK
Main Supervisor
Nacho Romero
Early Stage Researcher
Eduardo Frias
