Frontotemporal dementia

We are focused on understanding how the brain changes with frontotemporal dementia, as well as the impact of the disease on patients and their families.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the second most common degenerative disease causing dementia in younger adults. NeuRA is investigating the cognitive, behavioural, psychological and physical brain changes associated FTD.

We are also conducting research into the genetics of FTD and designing a clinical trial of a potential treatment to slow the disease.

An essential part of our work is understanding the impact of the disease on the lives of patients and their families. 

Our research approaches

NeuRA is working as part of the Australian government funded Forefront group, which brings together highly-skilled researchers. The goal is to better understand how Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and Motor Neuron Disease (MND) work and develop effective therapies. 

Our research discoveries

Our discoveries, including as part of the Forefront group, have been extensive in understanding the causes and effects of FTD – and better ways to reduce the discomfort experienced by sufferers.

We established rapid, new gene and blood screening techniques, this included identifying neuroimaging and genetic factors in different variants of FTD.  

Even more importantly, we have developed treatments and conducted clinical trials. The treatments include two methods to reduce pain in sufferers.  In clinical trials, we have discovered that memory can be enhanced for an extended period with cognitive intervention. We are also part of a multinational study and will be able to provide treatment to patients over a 12 months period as part of that study.  


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