Circular RNAs are a recently discovered class of non-coding RNAs and are highly expressed in mammalian neurons. In a new study published in Nature Communications, Kelly et al. identified a circular RNA which controls the formation of silent synapses, dormant neural connections that can be activated for memory formation. These findings increase our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity and memory.

Unipolar and bipolar depression are often misdiagnosed, hampering medical treatment. In a recent paper published in EMBO Reports, we describe a microRNA signature in human peripheral blood which distinguishes bipolar from unipolar depression patients. Studies in mice further revealed an important function of these microRNAs in the brain. Our results could pave the way towards the translation of microRNA biomarkers to clinical practice in psychiatry.

Gerhard Schratt received a grant over 93'900 CHF from the Dr. Wilhelm Hurka Stiftung for projects on Parkinson’s Disease and related Neurodegenerative Disorders. This project will explore the potential of antisense oligonucleotides targeting microRNAs to prevent synapse loss, mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death in a human neuron culture model of Parkinson’s Disease. This represents a first step towards the development of antisense oligonucleotide therapies for Parkinson’s Disease.

Together with Prof. Tatjana Kleele (ETHZ, D-BIOL), Gerhard Schratt received 200,000 USD to study the regulation of mitochondria, the power houses of our cells, by microRNAs in human neurons and the potential relevance for neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimers. After the 18-month pilot phase, selected projects will be eligible for a four year follow-up funding (1.6 Mio USD total).