Emily Carroll

My current research is focussed on the development of gene therapy approaches for Parkinson’s disease using high-capacity genomic DNA viral vector expression systems. The aims of my research are to design, construct, package and deliver DNA plasmid vectors into cellular models of Parkinson’s disease, including iPSC-derived dopamine neurons from Parkinson’s disease patients. I will then test for phenotypic correction utilising a variety of cellular and molecular biology techniques. 

 Prior to joining the Wade-Martins group, I obtained my undergraduate degree from the University of Edinburgh, before moving to Oxford to complete my MSc and DPhil in Neuroscience. Under the supervision of Professor Kevin Talbot, my DPhil research focused on investigating the role of mutant TDP-43 in the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Using a mouse stem cell-derived motor neuron model, I studied the effects of the TARDBP M337V mutation on cellular phenotypes including stress responses, cellular energy metabolism and axonal transport. I also utilised this model as a platform for drug discovery, to identify compounds that reverse pathological phenotypes associated with the expression of mutant TDP-43.