Molecular mechanisms underlying childhood brain cancer.

Career overview

Professor Ian Wood is a Professor of Molecular Neuroscience at the University of Leeds, where he is part of the School of Biomedical Sciences. He completed his undergraduate studies with a BSc from Imperial College and earned a PhD from University College London. Following his doctoral studies, Professor Wood undertook postdoctoral work at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, USA, and at University College London, UK. His research interests encompass various areas within neuroscience, molecular biology, and epigenetics, focusing on the molecular mechanisms regulating gene transcription in human diseases. Professor Wood is particularly interested in the role of microglia in neurodegeneration and the effects of chronic inflammation on neuronal health. He has contributed to significant research regarding the transcription factor REST and its protective roles in neuronal function, especially in the context of ageing and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, he investigates the regulation of potassium channel genes in relation to epilepsy and chronic pain. Professor Wood is also involved in educational responsibilities, serving as Pro-Dean International and supervising undergraduate and postgraduate research projects. He is a member of the Biochemical Society and actively engages in research projects aimed at understanding and developing therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders.

Research interests

Professor Wood''s research focuses on epigenetics in chronic disease, particularly the molecular mechanisms regulating gene transcription in human diseases. His work employs various molecular biological techniques, in vitro and in vivo model systems, and clinical samples to gain a comprehensive understanding of disease mechanisms. He is particularly interested in controlling excessive microglia activation, which contributes to neuronal damage in neurodegenerative diseases and after stroke and reperfusion. His research aims to identify ways to reduce excessive microglia activation, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders such as Alzheimer''s disease and Parkinson''s disease. Recent findings have highlighted the role of Histone deacetylase inhibitors in reducing microglia activation, and he is investigating the underlying molecular mechanisms. Additionally, Professor Wood studies the role of the transcription factor REST in ageing and neurodegeneration. REST is known to repress the expression of numerous genes critical for neuronal function, and its expression increases with normal ageing, potentially protecting neurons from oxidative stress and amyloid beta toxicity. His current research seeks to elucidate the mechanisms of REST-mediated protection from stress. In the area of epilepsy, he investigates the regulation of KCNQ potassium channel genes, which are crucial for neuronal excitability. His research aims to understand how the expression of these genes is controlled in both normal physiology and in conditions such as epilepsy and chronic pain, with a focus on the roles of REST and NFAT in this regulation.