Theme leads
Research Focus
This Theme is dedicated to preserving cognitive health and preventing cognitive decline by refining and implementing cognitive, imaging, and blood-based biomarkers at scale. The work targets both the general population and individuals presenting with memory concerns. By integrating advanced diagnostic tools and data-driven approaches, the Theme aims to enable earlier detection of dementia, improve risk stratification, and support the development of effective interventions. The overarching goal is to shift dementia care from reactive treatment to proactive prevention and personalised management.
Regional Context
The research is led from Oxford, with key contributions from the University of Manchester and Newcastle University. These institutions bring complementary strengths in clinical neuroscience, neuroimaging, and translational research. The collaboration enables access to diverse patient populations, advanced imaging infrastructure, and established clinical networks. The work aligns with national priorities, including the UK Government’s Life Sciences Vision and the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals, both of which emphasise the urgent need for innovation in dementia prevention and care.
Why the work is important
Prevention of dementia is a global health priority. The UK Government’s Life Sciences Vision (2021) lists ‘improving translational capabilities in neurodegeneration and dementia’ as one of its Great Healthcare Challenges. In August 2022 the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia and Neurodegeneration Mission was launched. This work of this Theme will contribute directly to the objectives of the Mission.
Research Aims
The Theme addresses two major challenges in dementia research: (i) identifying individuals most likely to benefit from emerging pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, and (ii) developing sensitive, scalable measures for early diagnosis and clinical trial outcomes. The research is structured around three interlinked work packages:
- WP1: Cognitive Testing and Risk Stratification
This work package focuses on the development and implementation of an online suite of cognitive assessments, including self- and caregiver-reported measures, combined with measurement of plasma biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease. These tools will be designed for both in-person and remote use. In parallel, risk stratification models will be created and validated using large-scale datasets such as UK Biobank. A pilot screening study will be conducted to identify individuals at high risk of developing dementia. - WP2: Brain Health Clinic Expansion
Building on the successful Oxford Brain Health Clinic (OBHC) model, this work package will integrate clinical and research protocols for patients referred with memory concerns. Assessments will include cognitive testing, blood biomarkers, genotyping, and MRI. The feasibility of extending the OBHC model to other clinical settings will be explored to support broader implementation. - WP3: Discovery and Validation of Novel Treatments
This work package will investigate disease mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets using big data analytics and informatics-led discovery approaches. Early-phase clinical trials will be conducted to evaluate promising drug candidates, supported by robust biomarker validation studies.
Impact
This Theme is positioned to make a significant contribution to the national and global effort to prevent dementia. By enabling earlier diagnosis and more precise risk stratification, the work will facilitate timely intervention and improve patient outcomes. The development of scalable cognitive and biomarker tools will support clinical trials and routine care, while the expansion of the OBHC model offers a blueprint for integrated clinical-research services. In parallel, the Theme is committed to building research capacity, supporting early-career researchers, and embedding translational science within NHS services.
