NEAT1-Mediated Regulation of the mTOR Pathway Impacts Autophagy Dysregulation in RTT
Rett Syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurological disorder predominantly affecting females, caused by mutations in the methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. Understanding the pathophysiology of RTT at a cellular and molecular level is crucial for the development of targeted therapies. This project aims to dissect the molecular underpinnings of RTT using a novel in vitro model system based on a commercially available human neural progenitor cell line, ReNCell. We have engineered three distinct ReNCell lines to mimic specific genetic alterations associated with RTT, providing a robust platform for mechanistic studies and drug screening. The first cell line carries a point mutation in the MECP2 gene (R133C), a common mutation in RTT patients, which alters the function of the MeCP2 protein. This model will allow us to study the impact of this mutation on neural development and function at a cellular level, providing insights into the disease's neuropathology. The second cell line is a complete knockout of MECP2, serving as a model to investigate the effects of total loss of MeCP2 function. This model helps in understanding the full spectrum of MeCP2's roles in neural development and maintenance, and in identifying compensatory mechanisms that could be targeted therapeutically. The third line involves the knockdown of NEAT1, a long non-coding RNA known to be involved in the pathogenesis of several neurological disorders, including RTT. Recent studies suggest NEAT1 plays a critical role in the neuronal cellular response to MECP2 dysfunction. By reducing NEAT1 expression, we aim to elucidate its contribution to RTT pathology and explore its potential as a therapeutic target. Together, these cell lines represent a comprehensive toolset for elucidating the complex molecular mechanisms of RTT and for the high-throughput screening of potential therapeutic compounds.