As an ISCRMU Fellow, Aleah will investigate the relationship between neurons and microglia. In their resting state, microglia support neuronal health and network formation; however, it remains unclear whether they benefit neurons exclusively during physical contact, or if the supportive factors they secrete are sufficient to drive this effect. Using IPSC-derived cells, Aleah will evaluate the contact-dependent and -independent effects of microglia on neurons. Understanding healthy neuron-microglia interactions may help elucidate their dysregulation in Alzheimer’s disease and guide targeted therapeutics.
