The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics presents:
Bess Frost, PhD
Salame-Feraud Director, Center for Alzheimer's Disease Research
Professor of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry
Professor of Brain Science, Brown University
Presentation:
Retrotransposon Activation in Neurodegenerative Tauopathies: From Bench to Bedside
Abstract:
“Almost half of the human genome is composed of retrotransposons, viral-like genetic elements that are normally silenced by constitutive heterochromatin. Dr. Frost and colleagues have discovered that retrotransposons become activated in Alzheimer's disease and related "tauopathies," and that pathogenic forms of tau protein drive retrotransposon activation. This seminar will review the history of this discovery, ongoing work related to retrotransposon-induced innate immune activation in tauopathy, and data from a recent clinical trial targeting retrotransposon activation in participants with mild cognitive impairment due to suspected Alzheimer's disease.”
Host: Iris Titos-Vivancos, PhD
Refreshments will be served.
Linda Jackson
(312) 503-5229
Email