About us

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease and is characterized by intracellular accumulation of the protein tau and extracellular amyloid plaques. These plaques form as a result of the aggregation of the protein amyloid-beta (Aβ). Along with chronic neuroinflammation, the inclusions of tau and Aβ lead to synaptic death and neurodegeneration, ultimately resulting in memory problems and other cognitive symptoms in those affected.

In our research group, we conduct translational research in several parallel projects aimed at understanding the molecular mechanisms of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. We have developed several different cell models to understand how Aβ and tau pathology spread between the brain's different cells. We have a special focus on understanding the role of astrocytes in this process. In both cell and mouse models, we study how various treatments affect pathology. Our research has resulted in the first disease-modifying drug - the antibody mAb158/lecanemab.

Another goal for the research group is to improve the diagnosis of AD. We primarily focus on developing methods for the medical imaging technique positron emission tomography (PET).

We collaborate closely with the Clinical Geriatrics research group and together conduct several studies aimed at understanding the genetic aspects of various dementia disorders.

Our currently ongoing research projects:

• Immunotherapy and PET diagnostics (Stina Syvänen and Dag Sehlin)
• The role of astrocytes in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease (Anna Erlandsson)
• Cellular Neurochemistry (Wojciech Piotr Michno)

Visiting address: Rudbeck laboratory, Dag Hammarskjölds väg 20, Uppsala Science Park