Imaging the extracellular matrix proteases MMP-9 and uPA in the development of acquired epilepsy

 

 

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) are two of the most important extracellular matrix proteases that have been involved in epilepsy. MMP-9 and uPA are upregulated in  epileptogenic lesions. In addition, MMP-9 knockout mice have been shown to be less sensitive to epileptogenesis than wild type mice while MMP-9 overexpressing rats showed an increased sensitivity to epileptogenesis compared to wild type rats.

On the other hand, uPA knockout mice showed a higher sensitivity to epileptogenesis than wild types. Imaging of these ECM compounds would facilitate the investigation of their role in acquired epilepsy. In this project, we aim: (1) to assess spatial and temporal changes of MMP-9 and uPA in animal models of posttraumatic epilepsy and temporal lobe epilepsy (2) to determine the role of these proteases in animal models of acquired epilepsy (3) to investigate whether these proteases can act as biomarkers/predictors of the long-term functional outcome.

 

 

Supervisor: Stefanie Dedeurwaerdere (or someone with similar expertise).

 

For more information about the post and to submit your application, please go to  https://www.uantwerpen.be/en/jobs/vacancies/ap/2015bapfggwef133/

 

For details about the post, please contact:

Prof. Dr. Stefanie Dedeurwaerdere