A cure for Alzheimer's disease may not be found within 10 years, but significantly better treatments will be available by then, University of Otago psychologist Prof Cliff Abraham said yesterday.
Prof Abraham, who is the director of the university's Brain Health and Repair Centre, is one of four leading university researchers who will give free public lectures at the university today as part of "Brain Day" activities, at the St David lecture theatre complex.
Prof Abraham's 11am talk is devoted to "The past, present and future of Alzheimer's disease therapies".
"Brain Day", which includes a series of displays at the university theatre complex, is supported by the Neurological Foundation and the university centre.
University physiologist Dr Ruth Empson and Cecilia Pascoe, of the foundation, are joint co-ordinators for the event, which is part of international Brain Awareness Week.
Noon: Associate Prof Brian Hyland - "Electric shocks and coffee: surprising directions in the treatment of Parkinson's disease".
2pm: Prof Gareth Jones - "The place of stem cells in the treatment of neurological diseases: Are there cures around the corner?"3pm: Prof Harlene Hayne - "My Brain Made Me Do It!"