SAME-NeuroID Retreat 2024 Meet-Up

Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) vectors are a powerful tool in gene therapy, especially for treating neurological disorders. Different AAV serotypes have been found to have specific tissue preferences, which means they can be used to target specific cell populations. Additionally, the Inverted Terminal Repeats (ITR) sequences from different serotypes can act as gene promoters and potentially affect the level of transgene expression. The specificity of AAV vectors can also be improved by using specific tissue promoters or by incorporating regulatory sequences such as enhancers into the vector. With this knowledge, my PhD project aims to design a precise AAV vector to target AgRP neurons. These neurons are located in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus and play a crucial role in regulating hunger and satiety.