Case studies

Cell studies of early Alzheimer's disease

Researchers are using samples from the Deep and Frequent phenotyping study pilot to prepare 'induced pluripotent stem cells' for investigating some of the earliest changes in Alzheimer's disease.

Study into early Alzheimer's disease treatments

The New Therapeutics into Alzheimer's Disease (NTAD) study is looking to detect markers of the disease before symptoms show. These markers for the disease will be used to test whether experimental treatments can delay, or even prevent, the progression of the disease.

Childhood adversity and dementia

Researchers conducting the biggest study in the Data Portal are looking into how early experiences of adversity impact brain health right across the lifespan.

Deep and Frequent Phenotyping study

One of the big challenges facing dementia researchers is how to diagnose and track Alzheimer’s disease in its earliest stages – often decades before symptoms start to show. The Deep and Frequent Phenotyping study will help scientists to identify the best early warning signs of this condition, and to track responses to treatments.

DPUK and experimental medicine

DPUK aims to deliver breakthroughs in dementia research through experimental medicine studies. We both directly fund and enable these studies through our technology infrastructure. In many cases, they will recruit through our clinical studies register.

More research case studies

Dementias Platform UK focuses on a wide range of areas, assessing and improving the cohort and data resources for dementia research.

Stem cell resource

Scientists are studying neurodegenerative disease using stem cells derived from the blood samples of cohort study participants. These cells - iPSCs - are a valuable resource.

Repurposing drug libraries

Scientists are repurposing the drug libraries of AstraZeneca (AZ) on patient-specific cell models. Can they be used for diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases?

Superagers and what they can tell us about dementia

Bringing together cognitive, lifestyle, genetic, biomedical, demographic and psychosocial data will allow researchers to identify the key factors that allow people to live well – without developing dementia.

Tests to bring out the best of existing health studies

By collaborating with industry partners, DPUK cohorts can access cognitive test technologies to enhance their studies. Computer-adaptive techniques and cloud-based platforms brings industry technology within reach.

Transforming clinical trials with data

Participants in DPUK's cohorts, will be offered the chance to join DPUK's Great Minds register.

Healthy heart, healthy brain?

Many studies indicate that there may be links between heart health and brain health, and this connection may be a promising new avenue in research and development for treatments for brain diseases. DPUK-funded researchers on the Crosstalk study are using large imaging datasets to look for early indicators of brain changes that show up in other organs too.

Can our environment support our brain health?

A DPUK ECR grant winner's research into the links between our environment and brain health has been used to inform a forthcoming World Health Organisation (WHO) report on healthy ageing.

A new lab to investigate the chemical signatures of dementia

A DPUK ECR grant winner is setting up a new lab in Australia to investigate the chemical signatures of healthy ageing and dementia.