Polymnd polyamine dysregulation in motor neuron disease as a targetable driver of astrocyte neuron dysfunction

The THE CHANCELLOR MASTERS AND SCHOLARS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE in Belgium from Europe region has released this tender for Polymnd polyamine dysregulation in motor neuron disease as a targetable driver of astrocyte neuron dysfunction Every 45 minutes someone in Europe dies from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ALS a fatal disease that causes progressive muscle weakness paralysis and eventually death With no cure available there is an urgent need to explore new mechanisms and human-relevant models that could inform treatments While most research has focused on the nerve cells called neurons that die in ALS growing evidence suggests that other cells in the brain and spinal cord particularly astrocytes which normally help and protect neurons may actually contribute to their loss This project will investigate whether a chemical imbalance in astrocytes plays a hidden but important role in ALS a fresh but well-grounded concept Specifically I will focus on polyamines small molecules that are vital for healthy brain function including cell stress responses and communication between cells In ALS astrocytes may lose control over polyamine levels turning a helpful process into a harmful one that damages neurons The research aims to dissect the cell-type-specific role of polyamine metabolism in ALS pathogenesis and to test whether restoring polyamine balance can rescue disease-related phenotypes To explore this I will use stem cell technology to create miniature 3D human brain-like structures organoids from the cells of people with ALS This will allow me to study how astrocytes malfunction in ALS how polyamine metabolism is disrupted and whether spermidine a naturally occurring polyamine found in certain foods can restore balance and reduce cellular damage By uncovering and targeting a hidden metabolic weakness in ALS this research could open the door to new therapies that aim to slow disease progression and preserve the cells and connections that keep people moving speaking and living with tender notice no. 101264980 published on 21 Aug 2026. The tender is due to expire on 31 Aug 2028. This tender is sourced from Cordis and is eligible for suppliers interested in IT services: consulting, software development, Internet and support. Interested bidders can obtain further information including complete bid documents or ways to participate by registering on Tender Impulse and referencing via Tender Impulse ID 14491781.