CHOOSE A SUBJECT

Dementia is on the rise. By the year 2030 it is estimated that 82 million people worldwide will suffer from its symptoms. Currently, there is no cure nor even a treatment that slows its effects.

Dr Mark Dallas is discovering how our brains work to fight back against dementia.

Mark is a neuroscientist and a lecturer at the University of Reading’s School of Pharmacy who studies glia cells in the brain. These were previously just thought of as the “glue” to stick other brain cells together, but are now known to play a vital role in the healthy functioning of the brain. Mark has been analysing how glia cells may be linked to the onset of dementia.

Mark’s research shows how glia cells could be early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease. It is thought that glia cells change from protecting to attacking the rest of the brain, leading to brain degeneration and contributing to symptoms of dementia such as memory loss. His research could hold the key to new treatments and provide tools for earlier diagnosis.

Mark leads lectures, tutorials, workshops and practicals for students in Biological Sciences and Pharmacy at the University of Reading. He shares his work at the cutting-edge of brain science with his students, helping to inform their learning and giving them access to the latest scientific findings.

Teaching staff on specific courses or modules and specific areas of research may be subject to change.
Read More Stories
University of Reading

My research focuses on one of the potential causes of dementia, rather than just the symptoms. It is providing clues that could help to defeat dementia in future.

Dr Mark Dallas – School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy
University of Reading