As the UK’s leading dementia research charity, Alzheimer’s Research UK has funded over £58 million of studies into Alzheimer’s investigating the causes, prevention diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
People diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and other types of dementia can take part in research studies. People with and without dementia, as well as carers, have a vital role to play in helping scientists understand more about diseases like Alzheimer's, and to test new treatments, therapies and methods of diagnosis. Find more information about taking part in research here.
You can register to find out which research studies you may be suitable to take part in via Join Dementia Research.
Through the research we fund into the causes of Alzheimer’s, our scientists are building a detailed picture of what happens in the brain in the disease. This is essential for improving diagnosis and developing new treatments to stop it.
We believe that only research can bring about life-changing treatments, and ultimately, a cure for Alzheimer’s. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we continue to support scientists who will take us one step closer to a breakthrough.
What is Alzheimer's disease?
Find out more about the symptoms and causes of Alzheimer's disease, and the treatments currently available.
Research projects
What role does the tau protein play in dementia?
Race Against Dementia Dyson Fellow, Dr Claire Durrant is investigating the role of tau during diseases that cause dementia, like Alzheimer’s.
What role does the clusterin protein play in increasing Alzheimer’s risk?
Genetic differences in the clusterin gene have been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, this project will try to find the reason for this effect.
What makes a neuron vulnerable to early Alzheimer’s disease?
PhD student at Imperial College London will work to reveal why certain nerve cells are more susceptible to damage in Alzheimer’s disease.
What happens when the barrier between blood vessels and brain cells breakdowns in Alzheimer’s disease?
Researchers are investigating whether the changes in cell metabolism at the barrier between blood vessels and brain cells contributes to brain degeneration.
This information was updated in May 2022 and is due to be reviewed in May 2024, it was written by Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Information Services team with input from lay and expert reviewers. Please get in touch if you’d like a version with references or in a different format.
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Dementia Research Infoline
Want to know more about dementia research? Keen to take part in research studies?
Contact the Dementia Research Infoline
9am-5pm, Monday to Friday
0300 111 5 111