Paul Adlard: zinc ahead

No2

Impaired memory is one of the most debilitating features of ageing: We want to understand how zinc is critical for normal cognitive function and how restoring zinc levels in the brain could lead to improved memory as we age.

No4

The aged brain will perform well if help is offered: Simple behavioural modifications through to pharmacological interventions can positively impact brain structure and biochemistry, resulting in improved cognition across age and also in disease.

No6

Synapses need zinc: have discovered that zinc at the synapse—the signalling connection between brain cells—is vital for normal learning and memory. So this is the focus as we target a medication that restores zinc levels. A commercial partner is on-board and there is much optimism for clinical translation.

No7

Next steps: What is the optimal therapeutic approach to achieve prolonged and healthy cognition throughout life?

I’m focussing in on the metal transporter proteins that alter with age while also broadening out to large scale population studies to determine whether we can predict cognitive decline by identifying specific variations in metal transporter proteins.

Associate Professor Paul Adlard works with Dr Victoria Perreau, Dr Feng Chen, Ms Krista Dent, Ms Amelia Sedjahtera, Ms Lydia Gunawan, Ms Lisa Bray and Mrs Kali Perronnes.

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder marked by recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions, associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain.