Project description

In experiments aimed at establishing large animal models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) we have obtained preliminary data suggesting that an epigenetic event in early development might be involved in priming cells for development of neurological disease later in life. In our efforts to understand this epigenetic phenomena, we are studying expression of specific transcripts from several complex imprinted loci. We want to explore the significance of our observations by analyzing the loci for changes in relevant epigenetic marks, DNA methylation and chromatin modification. We also plan to study expression patterns and pathways for small ncRNA genes included in multi-cistronic transcripts from the locus, followed by functional studies, in order to explore potential links to the triggering or progression of ALS.

Short bio

The main part of my research lies within the area of genetics, where I have undertaken projects aimed at identifying and characterizing the molecular basis causative of disease resistance, genetic defects and other phenotypic traits. Our toolbox have included large-scale association studies, genome sequencing, gene-expression analysis and epigenetics. We have worked on development of new ways to produce transgenic animals, leading to the generation of porcine animal models for neurodegenerative diseases, which is currently a major research focus.