Inflammation and AD: modulating microglia function – focussing on TREM2 and CD33

Topic description

Specific Challenge:

Multiple Genome-wide Association Studies and integrated systems biology approaches have linked genes involved in modulating and executing microglia mediated inflammation to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). However the role of microglia-mediated molecular pathways and the ultimate causative link between inflammation or microglia activity and AD is still an under-explored area of research.

To identify druggable points of interaction in the TREM2 and CD33-signalling pathways to modulate microglial/macrophage function for the treatment of AD, focusing on in vitro, in vivo methodologies using comprehensive analysis tools and pathway/systems biology approaches to understand the role of these regulators of microglia function in AD.

Resolving the role that AD risk genes such as TREM2 and CD33 play in modulating microglial function will be a critical step for understanding the controversial role of inflammation in AD. It will also pave the way to target these genes, or associated pathways, as potential AD disease modifying treatments.