Studies on the maintenance of neuronal identity and the regulation of splicing and differentiation in neuroblastoma – Johan Holmberg's Group

Our group is interested in two fundamental questions: How are differentiated dopaminergic and serotonergic neuronal identies maintained in the adult brain and if errors in mechanisms governing neuronal maintenance are involved in neurodegenerative processes? In addition, we are exploring how altered RNA-splicing patterns and the expression of HIF2a affect key aspects of neuroblastoma.

Our research

The vertebrate nervous system consists of a multitude of different cell types each with a unique identity and function. We are interested in how this cellular identity is subsequently maintained in the adult, with a specific focus on dopaminergic and serotonergic identity. In particular, we are exploring how alternative gene programs are permanently silenced and if errors in this process are components of neurodegenerative disease. In addition, our research also aims to understand two aspects of paediatric neuroblastoma. Firstly, if altered RNA-splicing patterns is a fundamental and targetable trait in high-risk neuroblastoma. Secondly, how HIF2a regulates the oncoprotein MYCN and differentiation state in neuroblastoma.

Publications

Selected publications

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