Discovery science

A new study finds links between two popular models of the disease—and the results could change how researchers think about treatment.

Knight Initiative researchers are uncovering the fine points of how our brains learn to move. In the long run, their findings could help devise better treatments for Parkinson's disease.

A study of killifish reveals how protein dysfunction develops in vertebrate brain cells, a key driver of aging – shedding light on cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS.

Knight Initiative researchers used a new lab model of aging human neurons to show that as cells age, lysosomes fall into disrepair and waste builds up—feeding a damaging cycle that could lead to Alzheimer’s.

Blood and cerebrospinal fluid markers tied to inflammation and metabolism sort some patients into subgroups, according to Knight Initiative researchers, a step toward predicting progression and tailoring care.

The technique, which used genetically healthy donor cells, prolonged life and function in mice with a disease similar to Tay-Sachs. It may help with other neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

The lab’s second crop of pilot awards will foster research in visual attention, the neurophysiology of exercise, and therapies for autism and mild cognitive impairment associated with aging.

Fat-filled microglia may play a role in the damage caused by Alzheimer’s, especially for those who carry two copies a particular gene.

Is your brain aging faster than your chronological age? New research shows it could raise your risk of death and dementia significantly—and offers promise for early intervention.

Knight Initiative-funded research ran the gamut from chemistry to public health, but one theme brought it all together: Studying what makes the brain resilient will help more people live better lives.