Elucidating the role of Fam20C in microglia cells during homeostasis and neurodevelopment

This project aims to uncover the function of the secreted kinase, Fam20C, in microglia cells; and how disruption of FAM20C may lead to dysregulation of microglial function in brain homeostasis and neurodevelopment. This proposal is within the MRC's remit of furthering knowledge on molecular and cellular mechanisms in neuroscience. This project will use an interdisciplinary approach by employing phosphoproteomics, biochemistry, genome editing in ex-vivo microglia and a mouse model to determine Fam20C molecular, cellular, and neurological microglial functions.

The potential outcome of this study is an improvement on our understanding of how the phosphor-secretome in microglia cells regulate microglial function in the context of neurodevelopment and disease.