Understanding how Duchene muscular dystrophy affects brain function 

DMD is a progressive muscle wasting condition caused by genetic changes in the dystrophin gene, which prevent the production of the dystrophin protein. As well as being important in muscles, the dystrophin protein also plays a role in the brain. People with DMD are known to be more likely to have conditions like autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, anxiety, depression and OCD. However, how DMD affects brain function is not well understood and current knowledge and treatments for DMD do not address this.  

A type of brain cells, called astrocytes, have been shown to not work properly in some people with DMD. The aim of this project is to look at how changes in the dystrophin gene affect the function of these cells. The researchers will also look at how these changes in astrocytes affect the function of another type of brain cell called neurons.  

This research will increase our understanding of the causes of changes in how the brain works in some people with DMD. Findings from it could potentially lead to future treatment developments to improve psychological symptoms in people living with DMD.