Is there a link among the pathogenic mechanisms associated with neurodegenerative disease?
Multiple pathways have been identified as playing a role in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), but it is unclear how they are connected.
Our current research is particularly focused on the role of the actin cytoskeleton –– which helps regulate cell shape and structure –– and nucleocytoplasmic transport as a possible common thread in ALS, Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). By understanding the processes that contribute to these devastating conditions, we hope to identify mechanisms that could be targeted for therapeutic intervention.