Presenter
Andrew Peet
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
After a great deal of research, I have designed a potential tissue to combat the affects of Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) called Myelink. This tissue would be directly attached to the brainstem via internal implantation. In a similar style to a glucose monitor/pump it will secrete cells periodically (rather than insulin) directly into the blood stream on the upper spinal cord right outside the brain. This secretion would be developed based on the patient's fine and gross motor ability and decline, so that when a patient showed signs of neurodegeneration, the tissue would secrete specialized cells for a period of time. It is important to note this period has not yet been determined but based on previous studies monitoring would be done monthly to create an average duration for secretion. The cells secreted from myelink are also "new" as they are genetically modified oligodendrocytes (GMolig cells) that are impervious to inflammatory cytokines. This is to allow for the GMolig to be secreted into Blood Brain Barrier without risk of necrosis soon after. In addition to cytokine resistance, the GMolig will also show heightened adhesion molecules on its external membrane to allow for easy binding to the myelin sheath. This would allow for the nerves to recover and become healed, giving the patient their gross and fine motor skills once again.
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Cynthia Sharp, D.V.M
Academic Discipline
College of Arts & Sciences
Repository Citation
Peet, Andrew, "Myelink: A potential design to treat MLD" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 273.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/273
