A common feature in almost all ALS cases is the build up of a protein called TDP-43 in the brain and spinal cord. We have identified a process called “SUMOylation” that helps prevent the clumping of TDP-43. We created a mouse model where we disrupted SUMOylation and observed that these mice develop symptoms related to ALS. Using high resolution microscopy, we aim to visualize exactly how SUMOylation interacts with TDP-43 in real time. Ultimately, this study will give us a better understanding into the key pathways on how SUMOylation plays a protective role, which may help develop treatments for ALS.
