Neuroscience research at BSMS encompasses all areas of the central and peripheral nervous systems. From laboratory through to clinical studies, our research explores the function of the nervous system in both health and disease.

A major focus of our research is formed by neurological conditions such as dementia, stroke, multiple sclerosis, motor neuron disease and chronic pain. Using molecular, physiological and neuroimaging techniques, our researchers are examining the underlying mechanisms, diagnosis and treatments of these conditions as well as the normal functioning of the nervous system.

Drs Dennis Chan and Naji Tabet are the lead researchers into dementia. Dr Chan's primary interest relates to the use of structural and functional MRI in the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and Dr Tabet investigates the role of lifestyle and dietary factors in dementia. Prof Florian Kern is also interested in Alzheimer’s disease and investigates the interaction between immune cells and amyloid-beta.

Leading clinical research into motor neurone disease, Prof Nigel Leigh focuses on the causation, clinical investigation, and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, in particular amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Research into cerebral ischemia and neuroinflammation led by Prof Pietro Ghezzi examines how inflammatory cytokines play a role in repair and protection of the nervous system. In this area, his research also studies mechanisms of inflammation and remyelination in multiple sclerosis.

Continuing the theme of inflammation, Dr Andrew Dilley’s research into chronic pain examines the physiological and inflammatory mechanisms that lead to symptom production, whereas Dr Ricardo Governo’s research determines the role of chronic pain treatments on central pain pathways.

Research into sickness behaviours by Dr Neil Harrison examines how the immune system interacts with the brain to cause symptoms of fatigue, depression and memory impairment. Prof Hugo Critchley’s research into central autonomic control determines how the brain and body interact to influence behaviour. Research is also being carried out into dissociation by Dr Nick Medford and into visual perception and executive functions by Dr Natasha Sigala.

Dr Harry Witchel examines the responses to drugs and psychological stimuli on the physiological function of the heart.