Research interests
For my research project this year I am focusing on cytoskeletal integrity in Alzheimer’s disease. In the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease tau becomes disengaged from microtubules leading to destabilisation of MTs and in turn axonal transport defects. Acetylation of tubulin (subunit of microtubules) has been proposed to increase the stabilisation of microtubules. Using Drosophila as a model of tauopathy I am observing the effects of tau on axonal transport using in vivo imaging of larvae and adult flies. Following from here, I am observing whether knocking out HDAC6, an enzyme that removes the acetyl group from microtubules, can stabilise the MTs and therefore reduce axonal transport defects.
Why I chose MRes Advanced Biological Science:
I chose to do an MRes in Advanced Biological Science as it was almost a stepping stone to then further consolidate future plans. The year of intense lab focus allowed me to develop new skills and gain more experience working in a lab, ideal for PhD or job applications.
Aims for the future:
After graduating with an MRes I am hoping to either gain a PhD position or work continuing in the field of Alzheimer’s Research, a key and interesting area of research for me.
Research group
Biomedical Sciences
Affiliate research group
MRes Advanced Biological Science
