Function of the Lysophospholipid receptor family in neuronal stem cells and their progenitors. [ 2007 - 2009 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: A/Pr Alice Pebay (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Mirella Dottori

Brief description Stem cells have the potential to give rise to a vast array of differentiated cells. Neuronal stem cells (NSC) can differentiate into progenitor cells which can themselves differentiate into cells of the nervous system: neurons and macroglial cells (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, Schwann cells). This in turn can assist in the treatment of degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, motoneuron desease etc. Our project aims to study the effects on NSC and their progenitor cells of the lysophospholipids lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), bioactive molecules known to play an essential role in the nervous system during development and inflammation. Our project aims to understand the mechanisms of action of these molecules in NSC maintenance, proliferation, differentiation and migration. By understanding how these molecules are able to regulate NSC biology will provide new avenues in the development of tools necessary for stem cell therapy.

Funding Amount $AUD 380,723.37

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes New Investigator Grant