Gene Networks in Multiple Sclerosis

Gene Networks in Multiple Sclerosis

Advisor/s

Margaret Jordan, Alan Baxter

College or Research Centre

College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Science

Summary of Project

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease resulting from a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. In an attempt to understand the integration of both sets of risk factors, we have compared mRNA transcripts between relapsing/remitting (RR) MS patients and healthy controls in 5 leukocyte subsets. A gene co-expression network was generated based on correlation of expression levels across >700 gene expression microarrays, and a module of mRNA transcripts that are differentially expressed in the monocytes of patients was identified. This project validates, characterizes and attempts to manipulate this transcriptional module in human cells ex-vivo and in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of central nervous system autoimmunity. Key Words

Key Words

autoimmunity; immunology; immunogenetics; multiple sclerosis; mouse models; genetics; co-expression networks

Would suit an applicant who

Has experience with molecular biology techniques (such as DNA/RNA hybridization, in situ hybridization, polymerase chain reaction) and/or tissue culture techniques and is familiar with statistical analyses and/or bioinformatics.

Updated: 03 Apr 2020