Nancy Bonini (University of Pennsylvania, USA)
Drosophila as a model for human neurodegenerative disease: A focus on the brain through age & disease
Our laboratory uses Drosophila melanogaster to study human neurodegenerative disease, and the risk factors. As part of these studies, we developed a head-specific traumatic brain injury (TBI) model. In this model, we found that an AP1 pathway became active acutely to protect from TBI, but then remained chronically elevated. Detailed analysis of the cells with chronic activation indicated that they have the properties of senescent cells. Study of these cells indicated they appear in response to mitochondrial decline and, if the pathway is dampened, they prolong health and lifespan. We are now using this system to perform genetic screens to discover new triggers of senescence, and how to protect the brain.