University of Galway led research project awarded €1.1 million in EU funding

Researchers at the University of Galway leading a project aimed at advancing the understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders have received €1.1 million in funding from the European Union.

The funding was made available through the Joint Programme on Neurodegenerative Disease Research (JPND).

This project is part of a collaboration between the University of Galway and institutions in Poland, Italy, and Turkey.

Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases, present a significant challenge due to their debilitating nature. 

Marked by the gradual deterioration of nerve cells, these conditions severely impact a person’s quality of life and place a substantial burden on patients, families, and healthcare systems.

The research will be led by Dr Kasia Whysall with Dr Leo Quinlan, Principal Investigators and Associate Professors at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at University of Galway. 

“This research endeavours to seek to unravel the complex mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration, with a particular focus on Alzheimer’s Disease,” said Dr Whysall.

“This project aims to uncover valuable insights into the early pathological processes driving neurodegeneration.”

The research will be driven by the pressing need for early detection and effective interventions, and will employ cutting-edge technologies and collaborative partnerships to explore novel pathways for development of treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. 

Central to the research will be the exploration of emerging biomarkers, including micro RNAs (miRs) and extracellular vesicles associated with these disorders and which hold promise as non-invasive indicators of disease onset and progression. 

“Our goal is not only to identify potential biomarkers for early diagnosis, but also to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases,” said Dr Quinlan.

“By combining our research with innovative therapeutic strategies, we hope to make significant strides towards improving the lives of individuals affected by these devastating conditions.”

“In addition to its potential implications for future clinical practice, this project is an opportunity to transform the landscape of neurodegenerative research, offering new avenues for targeting interventions and personalised treatments,” said Professor Martin O’ Donnell, Executive Dean for the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences.

“The research partnerships established as part of this research underscores the importance of global cooperation in addressing pressing health challenges.”