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Dementia is probably the greatest medical challenge that we currently face. Come hear about the diverse range of research that is taking place to tackle the condition, from how we can reduce the risk of developing dementia through to the cutting edge techniques that are shedding new light on the brain. There will be talks, interactive games and a raffle for Alzheimer's Research UK. This event is being organised in conjunction with ARUK Birmingham Fundraising Group.
Building a brain to study Alzheimer's disease
Dr Eric Hill
(Senior Lecturer, Aston University)
Dr Eric Hill
(Lecturer & Stem Cell Biologist at Aston University & ARCHA)
Can we study the human brain in a dish? The brain is the most complex organ in the human body. Understanding the changes that occur during the development of diseases such as Alzheimer's is a huge challenge. Recent breakthoughs in stem cell biology are allowing scientists to grow human brain cells in the lab. It is now possible to take skin cells from someone with Alzheimer's and transform them into stem cells which can then be turned into brain cells. Come explore the possibilities of using this tissue to study Alzheimer's disease and what the future of this technology holds.
The role of body fat in dementia risk
Dr James Brown
(Senior Lecturer in Biology and Biomedical Science, Aston University)
Dr James Brown
(Senior Lecturer in School of Life and Health Sciences & ARCHA )
Our bodies are made up of a collection of tissues that work together to keep everything ticking over. When we think of body fat, we may first think of its role as insulation and as an energy store, but body fat can also release chemicals such as hormones. Evidence suggests body fat can influence our risk of developing dementia, with excess body fat being linked to an increased risk of dementia in later life. But what underlies this risk? Come hear about how body fat can affect the brain, the role of hormones in this process and how this may affect our risk of conditions such as dementia.
Exercise and diet - reducing risk of Alzheimer's disease?
Dr Sarah Aldred
(Reader in Exercise Biochemistry, University of Birmingham)
Can our lifestyle really affect our risk of getting Alzheimer's disease? What evidence is there that things like diet and exercise actually make a difference? What can we change to actually cause some meaningful effect? When should we change it? This talk will try to answer some of the questions and dispel some of the myths about exercise and diet, and its role in reducing risk of Alzheimer's disease.
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