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Making the Future - Sussex's 50th anniversary fundraising campaign

Understanding neuronal dysfunction and degeneration

Because we can find new answers

The journey from theory to treatment

Image of neuronsIt is well known that neurons are particularly susceptible to damage, ageing and degenerative diseases. However, the causes of neuronal dysfunction and degeneration are poorly understood and there is a critical need for basic understandings. This knowledge is particularly valuable as the consequences of nerve damage can be so devastating – they affect everything from the ability to hear and see, to memory and mobility.

Our scientists are already making major contributions to our understanding of the molecular basis of conditions in this area – for example, in motor neurone disease, DNA damage-related ataxias and developmental disorders, stroke, Alzheimer’s and deafness. Our clinical academics are leading translational research on the diagnosis of dementia, treatments for Alzheimer’s and related diseases and behavioural and pharmacological therapy for patients with a range of neurodegenerative disorders.

Investing in outstanding neuroscientists

We aim to appoint a new Chair in Neuronal Dysfunction. This person will be an outstanding neuroscientist who can bring together the basic and clinical neuroscience research across the campus. This will enable us to learn more about nerve cell malfunction and allow us to identify new target proteins and pathways for the treatment of neuronal diseases. We can then develop innovative new drugs to halt neurodegeneration and promote normal function in individuals with neurodegenerative diseases.

It is vital that we also fund post-doctoral positions and PhD scholarships to create an environment where our research teams can work together to develop therapies for patients with these conditions and diseases.

Marion Brownridge"I loved my time at Sussex and my Biology degree has hugely influenced the rest of my life. I have always wanted to help the university to continue its far-sighted and valuable work so I have chosen to support a project that covers my interests in neurology, molecular genetics and cell biology.

If my donation can accelerate progress and stimulate interest in this vital area, then it is a most exciting way to give something back to my university. And the university will, of course, be giving something back to all of us."

Marion Brownridge (BIOLS 1968) supports research in to motor neurone disease

If you are interested in learning more about and supporting these projects, please contact

Clare Dobson on +44 (01)273 876575 or email c.dobson@sussex.ac.uk

Sue Hepburn on +44 (01)273 872657 or email s.j.hepburn@sussex.ac.uk