Studying inherited age-related neurodegenerative diseases, Dr. Ward focuses on discovering overlapping mechanisms of autosomal-dominant frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While many of the genes responsible for inherited FTD/ALS are known, little is understood about their mutations or the functional relationships among the genes. A number of FTD/ALS-related genes encode proteins involved in endocytic trafficking and RNA metabolism, suggesting converging disease mechanisms. To identify them, the group employs a combination of unbiased proteomic techniques, cellular and biochemical studies in human iPSC-derived neurons, disease models in mice, and translational studies in human subjects. These studies may ultimately reveal central disease mechanisms of FTD, serving as a foundation for developing disease-modifying therapies.

Michael E. Ward, MD, PhD
Investigator
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD