Elucidating sex-specific and disease-associated human microglia phenotypes and their contribution to Rett Syndrome

Microglia are the brain’s resident immune cells and play a central role in shaping the developing human brain. This project investigates how early immune challenges influence microglial function during critical windows of brain development, and whether these responses differ between males and females. Using advanced human brain organoid-based in vivo models, molecular profiling, functional assessment and computational analysis, we aim to understand how microglia respond to inflammatory signals in developing brain tissue. A particular focus is on sex-dependent microglial differences and their potential contribution to neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions, including Rett Syndrome. By uncovering how immune signals alter microglia-brain interactions during development, this project seeks to reveal why some brain disorders may emerge differently in males and females and to identify new entry points for sex-informed therapeutic strategies.