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The Receptor-associated Protein (RAP) As A Molecular Chaperone For The Amyloid Protein (Abeta) Of Alzheimers Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$402,403.00
Summary
Our research will examine the role of a protein known as the receptor-associated protein (RAP) in Alzheimer's disease. We will determine whether the protein contributes to the progression of Alzheimer's disease and we will examine the possiblity that that RAP may be used as a drug to treat the disease. The project could potentially have direct benefit for patients by leading to an effective treatment for dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Regulation Of The Beta-secretase (BACE1) By Glycosaminoglycans
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$561,212.00
Summary
Alzheimer's disease is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. Because of the prolonged institutionalisation of patients, it is a major health care burden. This project aims to develop novel drugs which can treat Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting production of the protein which causes the neurodegeneration.
A Randomised Clinical Trial Of Cognitive Activity For Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$490,127.00
Summary
Australia’s population is ageing rapidly and so is the frequency of age-related disorders. Dementia is one of the most frequent mental health disorders of older people and one of the leading causes of years of life lost due to disability in Australia. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) in old age is considered an important clinical state potentially predictive of future cognitive decline. There is increasing evidence that the onset of dementia can be delayed with targeting potentially modifiable ri ....Australia’s population is ageing rapidly and so is the frequency of age-related disorders. Dementia is one of the most frequent mental health disorders of older people and one of the leading causes of years of life lost due to disability in Australia. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) in old age is considered an important clinical state potentially predictive of future cognitive decline. There is increasing evidence that the onset of dementia can be delayed with targeting potentially modifiable risk factors. In older adults, frequent participation in mentally stimulating leisure activities has been associated with stronger cognitive (abilities such as memory) performances and reduced risk of dementia. Further, the rate of cognitive and functional decline can be influenced by cognitive intervention strategies, though few randomised control studies have explored these findings with individuals who have a diagnosis of MCI. The primary focus of this research is to determine whether a structured program of cognitive activity (CA) can delay progression of cognitive decline amongst older adults with MCI. 160 older adults will be randomised (by chance, like the flip of a coin) to either a 10 week CA intervention with a focus on cognitive training and rehabilitation techniques or a 10 week control educational intervention providing information on aging and retirement. Their cognitive performance, quality of life and functional level will be monitored during follow-up. The proposed study will improve the understanding of possible modifying factors of cognition and highlight the potential of intervention in an older age population. The obtained results will have implications for policy recommendations regarding health care resources and facilitate changes in the approach and management of individuals with MCI.Read moreRead less
ASCAPE: Audio App-delivered Screening For Cognition And Age-related Health In Older Prisoners
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$844,050.00
Summary
This study aims to develop and test a new, innovative health screening app to examine the health and functioning of older, ageing prisoners in Australia. The app will deliver a range of health and functioning measures via audio, minimising the need for literacy skills and for staff supervision during testing. It is hoped that this app will be easily implemented in prisons in future, to enable better health management for this growing cohort with complex health needs.
In Vivo Tau Imaging In Alzheimer’s Disease And Other Dementias
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$538,998.00
Summary
Alteration of the normal protein tau leads to its deposition inside the brain cells leading to their death. These deposits have been well characterized and they are associated with cognitive impairment. We propose to study tau deposits in vivo in humans using positron emission tomography (PET) and assess its association with cognition and other signs of neurodegeneration
Which Mental Activities And When For Dementia Prevention? The Four Nations Longitudinal Collaboration
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$183,218.00
Summary
We will examine the link between lifetime participation in complex mental activities and long term dementia risk in a level of detail not previously possible. Four major studies of brain health from around the world will join forces for the first time to determine which mental activities are most closely linked to protection from dementia, and when during the lifespan these are most important. Mental activity will be assessed using our recently published Lifetime of Experiences Questionnaire.
Progressive Aphasia And Amyloid Deposition: A Multidisciplinary Approach To Improving Dementia Diagnosis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$528,245.00
Summary
We aim to understand the role of amyloid deposition in the genesis of symptoms in Alzheimer's disease. Patients presenting with progressive deterioration of language (aphasia) some of whom are known to have Alzheimer's disease will be studied using brain imaging techniques, including a PET method (PiB) that labels amyloid in vivo, and to compare imaging changes with a range of language assessments. This will improve the early diagnosis and management of patients with progressive aphasia.
Suboptimal Sleep And Unhealthy Brain Ageing: Improving Outcomes Through Treatment
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$632,705.00
Summary
My research will address limitations in our understanding of the impact of sleep characteristics on memory and thinking abilities and biological markers of brain health in older adults, by; 1) exploring these relationships over time, and 2) enabling direct assessment of the effect of improved sleep on memory and thinking, and markers of brain health, following sleep-improvement therapy. My results will contribute to the development of strategies aimed at promoting healthy brain ageing.