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Decoding Epigenetic Barcodes in Blood for Early Detection of Neurodegeneration
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DNA modifications such as DNA methylation serves as an epigenetic code regulating gene expression and defining neural cell identities across the central and peripheral nervous system.
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Cell-type–specific DNA modification patterns, or “epigenetic barcodes,” are preserved in circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released from dying neurons and glia.
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By profiling these barcodes at CpG sites, we can trace the cellular origin of cfDNA in plasma.
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Using Oxford Nanopore sequencing technology, we are developing assays to sensitively detect and quantify neural cfDNA in circulation.
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This approach has the potential to enable earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, motor neuron disease (MND) and other neurodegenerative disorders, refine prognosis, and improve stratification in clinical trials.
