A toxic cycle of inflammation and iron in the ageing brain

This project uses a mouse model to investigate a new idea about how inflammation and iron interact to cause brain injury. We expect to show that inflammation in the body causes iron to accumulate in the brain and become toxic. We also expect to find that iron supplements and ageing make this situation worse. The results will make scientists think differently about the brain and will offer a completely new explanation of why some people remain cognitively sharp into old age while others do not. The results are certain to provide new perspectives on ageing and neurodegenerative diseases, and will expose new targets for effective therapies.