Astrocytes - a new target in stroke and neurodegeneration

This proposal takes a translational and multidisciplinary approach to determine the specific functions of reactive astrocytes in stroke, post-stroke plasticity, regeneration and recovery, and the underlying molecular mechanisms thereof, and to identify astrocyte-related biomarkers of outcome in stroke patients.

Further, we aim to elucidate the role of astrocytes in post-stroke secondary neurodegeneration, a major cause of cognitive impairment and depression. To uncover disease-specific and general aspects of reactive gliosis in stroke and neurodegenerative diseases, e.g.

ALS or Alzheimer´s disease, we will define the roles of sub-populations of mouse and human reactive astrocytes based on their molecular signatures.

To achieve these objectives, we take advantage of innovative multidisciplinary technologies such as mouse genetic and disease models, human iPS cell-derived systems, gene expression profiling including single cell RNAseq, state-of-the art bioinformatics, affinity proteomics-based tissue profiling, advanced MRI-based structural and functional connectivity, atomic force microscopy or affinity proteomics-based assays.

As our results point to astrocytes as a critical regulator of the CNS responses to stroke and a major player in neurodegeneration, our long-term goal is to develop and validate novel treatment strategies targeting astrocytes to promote recovery after stroke and slow down progression of ALS and dementia.

Time plan: 2021-25