Killam Seminar Series: CRISPR-based Functional Genomics for Neurodegenerative Diseases (virtual event)

The Killam Seminar Series presents: CRISPR-based Functional Genomics for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Martin Kampmann, Associate Professor, Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of San Francisco, USA

Abstract: The Kampmann lab develops functional genomics technologies to understand cellular and molecular mechanisms of human brain disease, and to discover new therapeutic strategies. Our CRISPR-based functional genomics platform in human iPSC-derived neurons and glia enables genome-wide modifier screens of disease-relevant cell biology in patient-derived cells. Using this approach, we are asking what controls cell-type selective vulnerability to tau aggregation and toxicity and, we are identifying mechanisms regulating disease-associated states of astrocytes and microglia, and characterizing how cellular functions are altered in these disease states.

Bio: Dr. Kampmann is an Associate Professor in the UCSF Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases. He received his BA in Biochemistry from Cambridge University and his PhD in Biophysics/Cell Biology from Rockefeller University. He co-invented the CRISPRi and CRISPRa screening technologies, and his lab has pioneered CRISPR-based screens in human brain cell types such as neurons, microglia and astrocytes. He leverages this unique technology to uncover mechanisms and new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer’s Disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Two central questions are:

1. Why do proteins aggregate in these diseases, and what about protein aggregation is toxic to neurons?

2. What controls disease states of other brain cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, and how can these cells be reprogrammed for therapeutic benefit?

Dr. Kampmann was named an NIH Director’s New Innovator, an Allen Distinguished Investigator, a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Ben Barres Early Career Acceleration Award, an Alzheimer Association Zenith fellow, and he received the Rainwater Prize for Innovative Early Career Scientists.

Virtual registration (Zoom) here

To watch the livestream (no Q&A available): https://vimeo.com/event/2446006

Supported by the generosity of the Killam Trusts, the MNI's Killam Seminar Series invites outstanding guest speakers whose research is of interest to the scientific community at the MNI and McGill University.