Lay summary
Parkinson's disease is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease globally. The disease is characterised by the progressive death of a particular type of brain cells, called dopaminergic neurons, resulting in loss of normal motor function. The majority of dopaminergic neurons are dead when the disease is diagnosed. With a predicted doubling of Parkinson's disease cases in Aotearoa over the next 20-30 years, it is crucial to identify early interventions to stop the development and progression of Parkinson's disease.
My proposed research will investigate the potential of a multi-functional neuronal RNA molecule, NL02, to rescue dying dopaminergic neurons using human brain cells derived from skin cells. By establishing this robust research programme, the fellowship will support my goal to develop an independent research career, develop cutting-edge methodologies, foster collaborations, and ultimately develop new interventional pathways that could halt the disease progression and transform the lives of individuals affected by Parkinson's disease.