Current research

Fellowships

Enabling top scientists to dedicate their time to research and encouraging recently qualified scientists to stay in the field of dementia.

• Using Stem Cells to Study the Tau Protein

  Dr Selina Wray at UCL is using stem cells, made from adult skin cells, to study the tau protein.

• Heart disease, stroke and Alzheimer's link

  Dr Cheryl Hawkes will be studying the links between heart disease, stroke and Alzheimer’s at the University of Southampton

• Tau protein and Alzheimer's disease

  Tara Caffrey at the University of Oxford is studying the tau protein and its links to Alzheimer's

• Enzymes may hold key to protecting brain from amyloid build up

  During his fellowship, Dr Miners aims to find out if enzymes can protect blood vessels from the damaging effects of amyloid and vascular dementia.

• Computer modelling of protein aggregation

  Protein aggregation is a key component of neurodegeneration, but much controversy exists as to whether it is a cause or a consequence of the disease. Dr Carole Procter aims to find out more.

• The genetics of behaviour

  Dr Proitsi from King's College London is looking at the genetic basis of behavioural symptoms in Alzheimer's.

• Building a picture of Alzheimer's

  This study is using state-of-the art imaging techniques to look at the brain during Alzheimer’s.

• Rapid analysis of brain scans for faster diagnosis

  Dr Josephine Barnes from the Institute of Neurology has received a research fellowship to develop a template for reading brain scans to allow for faster diagnosis and measurement of Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

• Why is age a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease?

  University of Cambridge researchers are investigating how age affects the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers will study biological pathways that regulate ageing and their interactions with the mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Navigating memory loss in Alzheimer's

  Cambridge researchers will use 3D computer tests to track the patterns of memory loss across the different types of dementia to see which areas of the brain are most at risk so that ways to protect these areas could be developed.