Abstract

The recently discovered meningeal lymphatic system plays a key role in brain health and disease by draining toxic substances from the brain. Buildup of the normally soluble tau protein is a key feature of Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias. A blood test for a form of tau is the only FDA approved test for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, but our understanding of how tau is removed from the brain is limited. This project is focused on learning how cells that line the walls of meningeal lymphatic vessels (called lymphatic endothelial cells) modify and remove tau from the brain – in particular how these vessels can adapt to their environment, and how lymphatic endothelial cells can increase or decrease uptake and transport of tau protein. Eventually this knowledge will help us develop new and effective treatments for dementia.