Killam Seminar Series: The Disappearing Act: How Microglia Influence Myelin Health Across the Lifespan
Supported by the generosity of the Killam Trusts, The Neuro's Killam Seminar Series invites outstanding guest speakers whose research is of interest to the scientific community at the MNI and McGill University.
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Veronique Miron, PhD
John David Eaton Chair, Multiple Sclerosis Research, Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Research, St. Michael's Hospital, Canada
Professor, Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Canada
Host: rami.massie [at] mcgill.ca (R)roberta.lapiana [at] mcgill.ca (oberta La Piana)
Abstract: Myelin is the insulation surrounding axons, which is critical for central nervous system health and function, yet it is damaged in common neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and pathological aging. Although myelin can be regenerated in the form of remyelination, the efficiency of this process decreases with aging and the progression of MS. Our lab has discovered that glial interactions are critical in maintaining myelin health and regulating remyelination post-injury. For instance, we have seen that the absence of microglia is sufficient to initiate spontaneous demyelination. In addition, we have identified surprising mechanisms by which microglia support CNS remyelination. Here, I will present our latest work understanding how microglia influence oligodendrocyte heterogeneity and the dynamics of myelin damage and repair. This has important implications for devising novel therapeutic strategies to support myelin health in aging and disease.
