
Dr Karen Mifsud
BSc (HONS), PhD(Lond.)
Current positions
Lecturer in Behavioural Genetics / Epigenetics
Bristol Veterinary School
Contact
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Research interests
My research interests focus on investigating molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying learning and adaptive behaviour across a range of species, to better understand how these are affected by challenges such as stress, and thoughout the ageing process.
A particularly interest is in understanding the role of the extracellular matrix, specifically the ubiquitious glycosaminoglycan hylauronan, which has been linked to playing a role in brain health and adaptive learning processes.
In order to pursue these investigations we use multiple methods including advanced chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), next-generation sequencing (NGS), immunohistochemistry, RNA extraction and analysis, quantitative PCR, RNAScope, western blotting, ELISA and behavioural analysis.
Projects and supervisions
Research projects
Optimising molecular weight analysis of extracellular matrix hyaluronan in the mammalian brain.
Principal Investigator
Managing organisational unit
Bristol Veterinary SchoolDates
01/06/2024 to 31/05/2025
Role of corticosteroid receptor DNA binding in stress-induced hippocampal gene transcription in relation to glucocorticoid and behavioural responses
Principal Investigator
Role
Co-Principal Investigator
Managing organisational unit
Bristol Medical School (THS)Dates
01/10/2016 to 31/08/2020
Publications
Recent publications
07/03/2023Genomic regulation of Krüppel-like-factor family members by corticosteroid receptors in the rat brain
Neurobiology of Stress
Insights into isoform-specific mineralocorticoid receptor action in the hippocampus
Journal of Endocrinology
Responding to Stress: Genomic and Nongenomic Actions of Corticosteroid Receptors in the Brain
Stress: Genetics, Epigenetics and Genomics
Distinct regulation of hippocampal neuroplasticity and ciliary genes by corticosteroid receptors
Nature Communications
Unexpected effects of metyrapone on corticosteroid receptor interaction with the genome and subsequent gene transcription in the hippocampus of male rats
Journal of Neuroendocrinology