A tau-associated factor to enhance memory function and prevent neuronal cell death
The toxic clumping of a brain protein called tau is underlying in Alzheimer’s disease. A process called hyperphosphorylation causes tau to become toxic. This destroys the structure of neurons and prevents important nutrients from reaching parts of the brain. Those parts eventually shrink and die. Unfortunately, we don’t know why or how this occurs. In this project, Dr Stefanoska will increase our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease development by investigating how tau-induced brain cell death contributes to cognitive decline. Dr Stefanoska is aiming to establish whether a protein called NSF could be a therapeutic target to reduce the detrimental effects of tau and protect neurons from its toxicity. The results will facilitate a more informed approach in the future development of drug therapies for cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr Kristie Stefanoska is a Research Fellow in Dementia and Henry Brodaty Post-doctoral Fellow (Dementia Australia Research Foundation) in the Vice-Lead Molecular Dementia and Memory Research Lab at Flinders University.