Neuromuscular Disorders
We work to translate an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of disease at the neuromuscular synapse into treatments. Our work led us to be commissioned to provide a National Advisory and Diagnostic Service for congenital myasthenic syndromes.
Overview
We study diseases that affect neuromuscular transmission, with the major focus on mutations of muscle acetylcholine receptors (AChR) and of proteins that govern synaptic structure.
Research
The neuromuscular synapse is both well understood and accessible for study. Functional analysis of mutations at the molecular level can be directly correlated with measurements of defective synaptic transmission in vivo and with the clinical features of the patients.
The work ranges from the studies of single channels, through to animal models of disease, to phenotypic characterisation of patients. It provides translational research of bedside to bed and back, with the bench research generating data directly relevant to patient treatment regimes. Moreover, a detailed knowledge of inherited dysfunction of neuromuscular transmission forms a paradigm for investigation of other neurological syndromes that may result from defective synaptic transmission in the CNS.
Available Student Projects
- Develop a positive allosteric modulator of skeletal muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
- Study the ultrastructure of the neuromuscular junction using FIB milling and cryo electron tomorgraphy
Research projects
- Searching for new genes associated with the congenital myasthenic syndromes using next generation sequencing
- Using a combination of biochemistry, molecular biology, electrophysiology and advanced microscopy to study the molecular mechanisms underlying disease
- Testing novel therapies for inherited disorders of neuromuscular transmission using transgenic models
Congenital Myasthenia Service
The Congenital Myasthenia Service provides a nationally commissioned specialised service for the diagnosis and management of children and adults in whom a congenital myasthenic syndrome is suspected.
Latest publications
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Domain-specific cognitive impairments, mood and quality of life 6 months after stroke
Journal article
Milosevich E. et al, (2024), Disability and Rehabilitation, 1 - 10
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Automated quality control of T1-weighted brain MRI scans for clinical research: methods comparison and design of a quality prediction classifier
Preprint
Bhalerao GV. et al, (2024)
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Rebound activation of 5-HT neurons following SSRI discontinuation.
Journal article
Collins HM. et al, (2024), Neuropsychopharmacology
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Development of an enhanced scoring system to predict ICU readmission or in-hospital death within 24 hours using routine patient data from two NHS Foundation Trusts.
Journal article
Pimentel MAF. et al, (2024), BMJ Open, 14