Dr. Michelle Vincendeau investigates whether endogenous retroviruses – the ancient viral remnants in our genome – contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. With the help of modern molecular methods, these elements will be specifically regulated in patient cell-derived nerve cells and their impact on typical disease characteristics will be analyzed. The goal is to detect so far overlooked mechanisms and to identify new therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease.
"Initial indications show that these viral elements are activated in nerve cells, and can enhance inflammatory processes and neurodegenerative mechanisms. This innovative approach opens up new diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities that have not been used by now.“
Her research is supported with 134.000,00 euros from the Alzheimer research Initiative. Congratulations!
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