Neurological Foundation of New Zealand

The Neurological Foundation continues to strive to make a difference to those with neurological conditions by raising money to fund research into the very best neurological research here in New Zealand. Only through research will our mission statement be achieved.

Mission Statement - “To alleviate suffering from diseases and disorders of the brain and nervous system through research and education”

Here you will find examples of the incredible research currently being carried out as a result of funding from the Neurological Foundation. The advances in neuroscience from these studies has been made possible by the generous support of New Zealanders.

Research into Parkinsons –
Shedding Light on Parkinsons with Dr Louise Parr-Brownlie

Dr Louise Parr-Brownlie works as a neuroscientist and lecturer in University of Otago’s Brain Health Research Centre and is one of an exclusive group of researchers dotted around the world in the midst of a revolution in brain science. In her Parkinson’s disease research, Louise is using a cutting-edge technology called optogenetics, which allows scientists to ‘switch’ individual brain cells on and off with the use of a laser light, allowing precise control of the cell’s behaviour – particularly relevant in Louise’s research where movement function is involved.

Ultimately, it is hoped that one day the activation of deactivation of neurons with the use of light pulses could restore movement or settle down involuntary movement in patients with Parkinson’s disease. More

Research into Alzheimers –
Astrocyte calcium signalling, neurotoxicity and amyloid beta with Dr Ji-Zhong Bai

Neurological Foundation research being carried out at the University of Auckland could lead to a new drug target to improve and prolong the lives of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The Neurological Foundation has awarded a research grant to University of Auckland scientist Dr Ji-Zhong Bai (known as ‘Bai’ to his friends) to explore the mechanisms of neuronal (brain) cell death in Alzheimer’s disease caused by the protein amyloid beta (amyloid-B peptide). Bai’s research project has been made possible by a grant provided by sir Graeme Douglas through the Douglas Charitable Trust.   Click here to read more about Bai's research.