NeuroImmunology in Eye Diseases| Leger Lab
(University of Coimbra, FMUC, iCBR, Portugal)

1) NDR PROJECT

Using gene editing and cellar and molecular approaches, we demonstrated that the loss of either Ndr1 or Ndr2 kinase can promote the concomitant apoptosis and proliferation of specific retinal neurons (amacrine cells).

We have also demonstrated that Ndr2 kinase modulate the expression of genes involved in retinal response to stress. Therefore, we are interested in deciphering the role of the Ndr pathway in retinal immune cells and the impact of abnormal immunological response in retinal degenerative diseases. What are the altered molecular pathways by Ndr signaling? What are the affected cells ? In collaboration with the Luca lab at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

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2) SITAGLIPTIN PROJECT

Sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitor, prevents the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier, neuroinflammation and retinal cell death triggered by diabetes, in a type 1 diabetes model. These protective effects are effective despite of existing uncontrolled hyperglycemia.

Using gene editing and molecular approaches, we are studying the potential use of the anti-diabetic drug Sitagliptin to control the retinal inflammation in diabetic retinopathy. Project lead by Dr. Francisco Ambrósio from the Retinal Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation Lab (iCBR, FMUC, University of Coimbra).