Can we… unlock the secrets of the brain?

The human brain is one of the most complex organs on the planet, capable of incredible feats that set us apart a species. However, over 70,000 each year suffer from neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s which decrease the ability to live a full life.

Associate Professor Maurice Curtis, Neuroscientist at the Centre for Brain Research and Head of the Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, will discuss the mysterious link between the early loss of smell and the development of degenerative brain disease. Through early detection, we may be able to stop the spread of disease to other parts of the brain and improve quality of life for those diagnosed.

As well as serving as the head of the laboratory for neurodegenerative diseases and brain plasticity, Associate Professor Maurice Curtis is the Deputy Director for the Neurological Foundation Human Brain Bank. This unique facility receives brain donations from those with degenerative brain disease, surgical specimens from tumour resections and patients with epilepsy undergoing focal brain resections.

Maurice is the lead researcher on a longitudinal observational study on early symptoms of frontotemporal dementia. This involves leading a multidisciplinary team studying the changes that occur early in the disease. This is one of the largest multigenerational studies of frontotemporal dementia globally.

This is a wonderful opportunity to build your neural and social connections and catch up with fellow alumni in the iconic Isaac Theatre Royal.

Main image: Human nerve cells generated in a dish from neural stem cells isolated directly from a donated adult human brain.

Christchurch Alumni and Friends Reception