German Center of Neurodegenerative Diseases
- Speaker LMU: Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Christian Haass
- Affiliation: Chair of Metabolic Biochemistry, Biomedical Center (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich
Scientists at the DZNE are investigating the similarities and differences between different brain diseases with the aim of developing new preventive and therapeutic approaches. At the DZNE, basic research is closely linked to clinical research, population studies and healthcare research in order to find new diagnostic markers and enable the rapid development of new therapies.
In order to promote the transfer of research results into applications, the DZNE combines basic research, clinical studies, population studies and health care research.
Basic research: The molecular and cellular causes of neurodegenerative diseases are still poorly understood. In order to develop better therapies, scientists at the DZNE are investigating how nerve cells are damaged and which target molecules are relevant for the development of new drugs.
Clinical research: The implementation of new research concepts for the direct benefit of patients has been difficult so far. The DZNE focuses on improving the early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases and accelerating the transfer from basic research to the clinic.
Population research: DZNE scientists study a representative cross-section of the population over decades to investigate risk factors of neurodegenerative diseases such as lifestyle and genetic predisposition. These studies are necessary to define markers for early diagnosis.
Care research: In order to influence the effects of neurodegenerative diseases already in the short or medium term, better patient care is essential. The primary goal of current DZNE studies is to improve the quality of life of people with cognitive disorders and to provide targeted support to their relatives and caregivers.
Source: DZNE