Research

Neurodegenerative diseases represent some of the most significant public health challenges of the 21st century: they are chronic, common and untreatable.

Today, one-third of adults over 85 years of age have some form of dementia. As our population ages over the next 25 years, the prevalence of these diseases is expected to double.

The science of these diseases is complex – the easy answers have been ruled out.

At the Tanz Centre, we are prepared to meet this challenge. Our researchers have made many of the most important discoveries of the past two decades concerning the genetics of Alzheimer’s and other diseases. We are determined to discover and invent effective diagnostics and therapies that will stop these devastating diseases.

To learn more about our research areas and the science behind the neurodegenerative diseases studied at the Tanz Centre, please explore the links below:

ALS

Alzheimer’s Disease

Frontotemporal Dementia

Parkinson's

Prion Diseases

Feb 15, 2023

Clinical Trial for Parkinson’s Disease Provides New Avenues for Research

A recent clinical trial testing a new drug to treat the root cause of Parkinson’s disease did not show that the drug was effective, but the trial results will offer new information about the development of Parkinson’s disease in the brain and raise new research questions.

Jan 16, 2023

Unexpected Findings May Help Explain Start of Rare Neurodegenerative Disease

Recent research led by scientists at the University of Toronto’s Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases is helping build a better understanding of iron accumulation in the brains of people with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP).

Nov 28, 2022

"Science is better when it’s inclusive"

A new equity, diversity and inclusion committee at the Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases aims to generate grassroots support among faculty, students and staff in creating an inclusive environment at the Centre.

Oct 13, 2022

Three Scientists Receive Tanz Centre Research Awards

Three researchers at U of T’s Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases have been awarded $40,000 each to conduct research into Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.

Sep 14, 2022

Tanz Centre Study Pinpoints Molecular Subtypes Among Lewy Body Disorders

University of Toronto researchers have found important subtypes within Lewy body disorders, a group of neurodegenerative diseases that includes Parkinson’s disease. The subtypes reflect differences in the activity of the protein alpha-synuclein in different brain regions.

Jul 20, 2022

Record-Attempting Long-Distance Swim to Raise Funds for Neurodegenerative Disease Research

Sean Nuttall's record-breaking swim will raise funds for the University of Toronto’s Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases in memory of his father.