Lay summary
Dementia (mate wareware) is a growing concern in Aotearoa, profoundly affecting patients and caregivers. As cases rise, it's crucial to deepen our understanding of how the brain changes during disease. While previous research has largely focused on nerve cells, mounting evidence suggests brain immune cells play a critical role in dementia. My research has produced a unique and comprehensive dataset revealing which genes are active in immune cells during dementia. This groundbreaking work now allows us to explore two key questions: what genetic factors underlie these changes, and how does overall brain health contribute to the changes observed? My research also extends beyond brain cells to the development of innovative blood tests to detect immune-related brain changes in dementia, leading to earlier diagnosis and improved treatments. By advancing our knowledge of brain immune processes in dementia, I aim to transform treatment approaches and significantly improve the lives of those affected.