Masterstudent

Project for master thesis

at the Institute of Diagnostic Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry

• Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum

Title:

“Characterization of Molecular Targets in Disease Models of Hereditary Spastic Paraplegias

for Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Development”

Project Description

Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) comprises a genetically heterogeneous group of

neurodegenerative disorders (SPGs) characterized by progressive lower limb weakness and

spasticity caused by degeneration of corticospinal motor neuron axons. Mutations in HSP￾associated genes result in functional alterations of the corresponding proteins, ultimately

disrupting cellular homeostasis. Similar to many other inherited neurodegenerative diseases,

no common molecular targets for diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic interventions have

yet been established for HSP.

This Master’s project aims to investigate the molecular and functional mechanisms

underlying a subgroup of HSPs, with a particular focus on SPG11, SPG15, and SPG48. The

objective is to identify shared molecular targets among these pathomechanistically related

HSP forms. Using established murine models for SPG11, SPG15, and SPG48, a

multiparametric approach will be employed to validate candidate targets identified through

OMICs-based analyses of various tissues and cellular systems, including murine brain tissue

and immortalized mouse embryonic fibroblasts (iMEFs).

The project involves mammalian cell culture (mouse and human cell lines) as well as a broad

range of biochemical and molecular biology techniques, including SDS-PAGE, Western

blotting, immunoprecipitation, qPCR-based RNA analysis, fluorescence microscopy, and

immunohistochemistry on fixed mouse tissues.

We are seeking a highly motivated Master’s student pursuing a degree in Biomedicine or a

related field. Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and motivation letter to Dr.

Mukhran Khundadze, Contact: [email protected].