Dr Kirsten Coupland

Dr. Kirsten Coupland is a postdoctoral researcher based at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) and the University of Newcastle. Her current research examines the molecular basis of post-stroke outcomes, the results of which she aims to see implemented in a clinical setting.

Dr. Coupland was awarded her PhD from the University of New South Wales in 2015 for her work examining the expression of the microtubule associated protein tau (MAPT) gene in late-onset neurodegenerative disease and its association with disease risk and modifiable lifestyle factors. Under the supervision of Dr. Carol Dobson-Stone and A/Prof. John Kwok, Kirsten’s work identified multiple genetic factors with the potential to contribute to neurodegenerative disease risk. Her work led to the finding that increased DNA methylation (a modifiable epigenetic mark) of MAPT was associated with delayed onset of Parkinson’s disease, and that this methylation was modifiable by vitamin E. These findings led to two awards and an invitation by the Royal Society to present at the Commonwealth Science Conference in Bangalore, India.

Following her PhD, Kirsten took up a postdoctoral position at Karolsinka Institutet, Sweden in the lab of A/Prof Helena Karlström to examine the molecular underpinnings of an inherited vascular dementia (CADASIL). This condition arises due to mutations in a single gene (NOTCH3) and manifests as a series of small strokes that damage the brain and lead to memory impairment. This work focused on the development of a therapy that directs the immune system to remove a toxic build-up of protein in order to pre-emptively treat CADASIL. Her research at Karolinska Institutet resulted in the securing of several competitive grants that continue to fund this important work. In recognition of her skills and experience in neurodegenerative disease and vasculature, Kirsten was recruited to the labs of Prof. Neil Spratt and A/Prof Rohan Walker in May 2018 under the prestigious Dalara Foundation fellowship where she will investigate new targets for post-stroke therapy to improve patient outcomes.