Boost for dementia research

DEMENTIA patients are on the cusp of having their heartbreaking disease reversed and memory restored under a $185 million Morrison Government ageing fighting fund.

Queensland researchers – who have cured dementia in mice – will begin clinical trials in Brisbane next year on up to 10 patients with early-onset dementia, who can consent to the intervention.

Health Minister Greg Hunt will unveil the Ageing, Aged Care and Dementia Mission, which will fund $10 million trials at the Queensland Brain Institute.

The research has found it can blast away the “toxic plaque” that builds in the brains of dementia mice by using “micro bubbles” and an ultrasound. The memories of the mice also returned.

Foundation chairman of the Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research Professor Jurgen Gotz is hoping to produce a portable scanning ultrasound device, which could be used around the country.

As Australia’s ageing population increases, more people are expected to be diagnosed with the disease. It takes a massive toll on families and the bottom line.

Professor Gotz said there were more than 350,000 Australians with dementia.

“Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or any other of the more than two dozen forms of dementia. Finding a treatment is thus absolutely critical,” he said.