
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 groups 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 throughout the ageing process.
A particular interest is in understanding the role of the extracellular matrix, specifically the ubiquitous glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan, 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
BBSRC International Institutional Award Tranche 2
Principal Investigator
Managing organisational unit
Bristol Veterinary SchoolDates
01/09/2025 to 31/03/2026
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
Role
Co-Principal Investigator
Managing organisational unit
Bristol Medical School (THS)Dates
01/10/2016 to 31/08/2020
Publications
Recent publications
01/10/2025Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as a hidden threat to scavenging raptors beyond Gyps
Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology
Genomic 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

