Dr Chidozie Anyaegbu, a postdoctoral researcher in the Neurotrauma Research group at Perron Institute and Curtin University, has received a 10x Genomics and Millennium Science Start Single Cell Fellowship via Millennium Science.
This will enable the use of advanced gene sequencing technology called the 10x Genomics Chromium box to prepare single cells for comprehensive genetic analysis as part of a Perron Institute/Curtin University project related to Dr Anyaegbu’s research interest in traumatic brain injury.
The 10x Genomics Certified User Qualification that Dr Anyaegbu will receive at the end of the extensive training program will allow him to analyse the genetic makeup of immune cells potentially contributing to memory problems following a concussion.
Dr Anyaegbu will use the skills acquired to address the aims of the Perron Institute priming grant he was awarded earlier this year, titled “Single-cell RNA profiling of the gut heritage of brain-infiltrating T cells associated with traumatic brain injury”.
The grant will enable him and fellow members of the team led by Professor Lindy Fitzgerald to conduct sequencing for analysis of a greater number of brain samples, therefore gaining deeper insight into traumatic brain injuries.
“The award will allow me to gain technical skills I need to show for the first time that brain-infiltrating immune cells and the gut microbiome contribute to memory problems following a concussion,” he said.
The cell barcoding equipment, to be shipped from Melbourne, will be the second of its kind in WA.
“The insights from this pioneering work will ultimately inform the design of new treatments that combine probiotics with drugs that could change how the immune system responds to a concussion.”
Training is already underway for the project beginning next year.
The fellowship also provides Dr Anyaegbu with an invitation to speak at the 10x Genomics-Millennium Science ANZ User group Meeting in 2022.
For more information or to enquire about using the machine if you’re housed in the Sarich neuroscience building in Nedlands, email chidozie.anyaegbu@curtin.edu.au.
Congratulations, Dr Anyaegbu!