J. Tabitha Hees has been awarded an NWO Veni grant for her project ‘Uncovering Neuronal Protein Synthesis Hotspots: From mRNA Transport to Translation’
Neurons are highly elongated cells in the brain that must survive and function for a lifetime. To keep these complex cells healthy, proteins must be continuously supplied to their furthest extensions, which is a massive logistical challenge. Instead of shipping finished proteins all the way from the cell body, neurons transport the genetic blueprints (mRNAs) directly to where they are needed. However, how these traveling mRNAs know exactly where to stop and where local protein production is activated remains a mystery.
Her project investigates the new concept that local protein production is managed at specific control hubs where the cell’s transport system and protein factories converge. Using live-cell imaging, proximity proteomics and RNA sequencing, Tabitha will study these dynamic cellular interactions in real time to understand how these hubs function.
While driven by a fundamental curiosity about healthy brain cells, this work also holds important clues for understanding disease. Disruptions in mRNA transport and protein production are central events in neurodegenerative diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). By uncovering the cellular changes that lead to ALS, she hopes to lay an essential scientific foundation for future therapeutic strategies.
Tabitha is a PostDoc in the group of Max Koppers at FGA. More information on this VENI project can be found on: J. Tabitha Hees receives Veni grant for research on brain cells and ALS – Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.