Neurodegenerative Conditions

Neurodegenerative disease is an umbrella term for a range of conditions which primarily affect the neurons in the human brain. Examples of neurodegenerative diseases include Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Huntington’s disease and many millions of people are affected. Neurons are the building blocks of the nervous system which includes the brain and spinal cord. Neurons normally don’t reproduce or replace themselves, so when they become damaged or die they cannot be replaced by the body.

The BIRAX programme, in partnership with MS Society, Parkinson’s UK, ADDF and Alzheimer’s Society is supporting research into:

What happens to the brain when it is affected by a neurodegenerative condition?;
The role of stem cell technology in the area; and
The development of new mechanisms and therapeutic approaches for individuals affected.

Neuro Research

Regenerative cell therapy for Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world, caused by progressive degeneration of nerve cells.

Towards regenerative medicine in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is the most common cause of non-traumatic neurological disability in young adults.

Finding the role of blood vessels in nerve cell regeneration

A failure to generate sufficient new nerve cells (neurons) to replace those lost in different brain injuries results in long-term disability or cognitive impairment.