LifeArc
University of Sheffield

Advancing translatable human cell models for motor neuron disease

Motor neurone disease (MND) is a progressive, fatal neurological condition where motor neurones lose their ability to transmit messages. This fatal disease progresses rapidly, with one-third of patients dying within a year of diagnosis. There is currently no cure.

Viktoria’s research focuses on astrocytes – support cells in the brain and spinal cord that maintain cellular functions and coordinate immune responses. During MND development, astrocytes undergo significant dysfunction.

Researchers face a fundamental "chicken and egg" problem: Do failing motor neurones cause astrocyte dysfunction, or do toxic astrocytes trigger motor neurone death? This question remains unanswered because existing laboratory models fail to replicate the complex cellular environment found in human patients.

Current experimental systems often use simplified cell cultures or animal models that don't capture intricate cellular interactions or specific inflammatory responses involved in human MND. This mismatch between laboratory conditions and real disease progression has prevented effective treatment development.

Viktoria is addressing this gap by developing advanced laboratory models using human cells, genetic studies, and post-mortem tissue. These sophisticated models recreate exact cellular conditions in MND patients, including complex interplay between astrocytes, motor neurones, and other brain cells.

By identifying how astrocytes contribute to disease progression, this multidisciplinary approach could reveal new therapeutic targets and provide more reliable testing platforms for potential treatments.

Biography

Viktoria is a young scientist passionate about supporting the next generation of scientists, from running children’s science parties to her work at conferences and as a student buddy at LifeArc. Outside of research, Viktoria enjoys outdoor activities such as camping and upcycling projects. Her diverse interests and experience in both research and science communication inform her approach to tackling the complex challenges of MND research.