Dementia is one of the most pressing health challenges of our time and there is currently no cure. Queensland Brain Institute researchers are driven by the belief that fundamental research is required to address the growing challenge posed by dementia. Supported by the Institute’s world-class, cutting-edge technologies, and working closely with industry and clinical partners to progress research from discovery to treatment, our mission is to drive treatments and interventions for dementia through the understanding of basic disease mechanisms and translation of these into real-world applications.
Research highlight
Queensland Brain Institute researchers have discovered a new ‘seeding’ process in brain cells that could be a cause of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease. Professor Jürgen Götz said the study revealed that tangles in neurons, a hallmark sign of dementia, form in part by a cellular process that has gone astray and allows a toxic protein, tau, to leak into healthy brain cells. Find out how the Götz lab untangled a new process leading to dementia.
Hear from our researchers
Professor Jürgen Götz, Director, The Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research
“The Queensland Brain Institute is a stimulating environment with outstanding core facilities, managed by supervisors who are eager to be at the forefront of science.
This partnership between research and technology allows my lab to delve into the pathological mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease, helping to develop outcomes to slow, or hopefully, cure the disease.
This road of discovery has led us to ultrasound technology, in which we’ve found can restore cognition in our models. We believe pursuing this further could leave a positive legacy for people living with dementia.”
Dr Odette Leiter, Early Career Researcher, Walker Group
“My research investigates how blood cells (platelets) regulate new neuron generation in the hippocampus (adult neurogenesis), a process that is crucial for maintaining cognitive health throughout life.
The Queensland Brain Institute is a world-leading neuroscience research institute with a strong focus on basic research, and being able to perform my research at such an excellent workplace and be part of its scientific community is highly beneficial to progress in my career as a neuroscientist.
“I believe the Institute's twin focus of combining strong support of critical blue-sky research and fostering the translation of scientific discoveries, will lead to improvements in human health.”
Isaac Akefe, PhD Student, Meunier Group
“I have always been fascinated by fat molecules called lipids which are highly enriched in the brain. I’m aiming to discover what role lipids play in memory and learning deficits observed in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
QBI was my first choice to study as it’s a hub for exceptional researchers with outstanding skills, and unique research ideas. Furthermore, the modern research facilities and working environment were compelling, while training opportunities, research workshops, seminars, and mentoring programs helped guide my choice.
Aside from the modern facilities, the conducive environment for research collaboration and discussion of novel ideas is one of the paramount ways the institute supports cutting-edge discoveries.”
