Biography & Research:
My research focus lies in the genetic background and molecular mechanisms underpinning neurodegenerative diseases, especially frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Alzheimer's disease. I am especially interested in FTD associated with the C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion. My group utilizes a variety of in vitro and in vivo model systems and patient-derived cells (including induced pluripotent stem cells), clinical samples and data. Our special interests are in: altered synaptic function, cell metabolism, cellular degradation mechanisms, such as autophagy and proteasomes, as well as glial cell function in neurodegeneration. We also closely collaborate with clinical researchers to identify novel biomarkers, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic targets.