MRC Transition Support CSF David Owen

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1) OVERARCHING AIMSMicroglia - cells of the immune system that live in the brain - contain a protein called TSPO. Drugs which target TSPO change microglial behaviour and protect nerve cells in animal models of neurodegenerative disease. However, the function of TSPO is unknown. Therefore, the aim of this project is to understand how TSPO protects nerve cells, and hence to pave the way for novel treatments of neurodegenerative disease.Scientific Progress I have set up an immunology laboratory and a facility to grow human microglia from stem cells (IPS cells). I then characterised the cells and showed they behave similarly to human microglia derived from patients undergoing biopsies and hence they are fit-for-purpose. We next identified which proteins TSPO associates with, which is a vital question when trying to understand the function of a protein. We also showed how removing TSPO from the cells affects their immune function. Non-Scientific ProgressChair of NW London IVIG panel (IVIG is a lifesaving but scares resource).Invited to chair NW London Integrated GP Formulary Panel (makes decisions covering 2 million people).Paid scientific advisory board member of Nodthera and INmune Bio. Rising Star Award (ONO Pharmaceuticals - including a small grant (£91,000)).Invited to speak (expenses paid) at 4 international (highly reputable) conferences .