Principal Investigators

    Katie Lunnon

    Institution

    University of Exeter

    Contact information of lead PI

    Country

    United Kingdom

    Title of project or programme

    Epigenetic modification of mitochondrial genes in Alzheimer's disease (AD)

    Source of funding information

    Alzheimer's Research UK

    Total sum awarded (Euro)

    € 40,674

    Start date of award

    01/06/2013

    Total duration of award in years

    2.8

    Keywords

    Research Abstract

    Mitochondria, the ‘power-plants’ are of the cell produce energy via a process called the electron transport chain (ETC). Although most of a cell’s DNA is contained in the cell nucleus, the mitochondrion has its own independent genome (DNA). Of the 97 proteins involved in the ETC, 13 are encoded by genes located in the mitochondria. The ‘expression’ of these genes is very tightly regulated to ensure enough energy is produced to fuel the cells. In Alzheimer’s disease (AD) there appear to be changes in mitochondria, although we are unsure of the exact molecular mechanisms driving this.

    The expression of genes in the nucleus is regulated by ‘epigenetic’ processes that can turn genes on and off. We have shown that epigenetic changes occur in AD brain implicating these processes in disease. Recently, scientists have shown that DNA methylation, a key epigenetic mark, also regulates genes in the mitochondrial genome. This project will use cutting-edge methodologies to address the hypothesis that mitochondrial dysfunction in AD brain is a result of epigenetic changes to the mitochondrial DNA.  Excitingly this project could identify new targets for drug development as epigenetic changes are potentially reversible and epigenome-altering drugs are already in development for treating cancer.

    Further information available at:

Types: Investments < €500k
Member States: United Kingdom
Diseases: N/A
Years: 2016
Database Categories: N/A
Database Tags: N/A

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