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Selection of DNA Aptamers for Inhibition of Protein Aggregation in ALS

Aperçu du projet

The fight against ALS is made extremely challenging due to its largely unknown origin in most patients. This is the case for sporadic ALS, which accounts for up to 90% of all ALS cases, leaving this cohort of patients searching for answers. Our proposal aims to tackle one of the dominant theories surrounding sporadic ALS onset – a protein known as TDP-43. Significant research shows this protein appears to abnormally accumulate in motor neurons – the neurons that eventually die – in ALS patients. For this work, we aim to use small molecules of DNA called aptamers. These molecules can recognize and interact with some biological target thanks to a variety of forces between the aptamer and target. In our group, we can discover aptamers for different targets that are essentially like a lock and key – a unique DNA sequence being the key, and the target being the lock. By discovering unique sequences of DNA that can bind to the Prion-like domain (PrLD) of TDP-43, we hope to inhibit accumulation of TDP-43 and reduce TDP-43-associated toxicity.

Chef d'équipe

Maria DeRosa , Carleton University

Partenaire et Donateurs

ALS Canada

Projet en cours

Selection of DNA Aptamers for Inhibition of Protein Aggregation in ALS

  • Domaine de recherche

    Neurodegeneration

  • Disease Area

    ALS

  • Compétition

    Société canadienne de la SLA - Fondation Brain Canada - Bourses de découverte

  • Province

    Ontario

  • Date de Début

    2025

  • Montant total du financement

    $120,000

  • Contribution Santé Canada

    $60,000