University of Otago Associate Prof John Reynolds spoke about his research into the mechanisms of strokes and Parkinson's disease, which investigated whether reproducing patterns of brain activity known to be involved in normal learning and memory could be used to treat brain diseases.
In strokes, protocols for balancing the activity between the two halves of the brain are being trialled.
For Parkinson's disease, his group is investigating the role of dopamine - a brain chemical that is depleted in the disease - and how it affects learning new skills and movements.
University of Auckland Associate Prof Bronwen Connor detailed how stem cells in the brains of adults with Huntington's disease generated replacement nerve cells as a response to losses which occurred from the disease.
Her research team is now identifying chemicals which stimulate stem cells to make new brain cells.
To further their understanding of the process, they are trying to grow adult stem cells in laboratory conditions in the hope they will be able to use stem cells to enhance the brain's own repair mechanisms.
University of Otago researcher Dr Margaret Ryan spoke about a small sticky protein which is toxic to brain cells, and its link to Alzheimer's disease.
Her research focuses on a related protein in the brain which protects against cell damage and supports memory processes.
Dr Ryan believed the protein has the potential to provide a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease.
Lectures and seminars will continue throughout the week, with a public lecture at the Queenstown Events Centre this morning by University of Auckland Associate ProfDebbie Young about gene therapy for Parkinson's Disease.
On Thursday and Friday, members of the Chair in Neurosurgery Project, neuroscientists from the University of Otago and other neurological support agencies will have a stand in the Meridian for the public to talk to scientists and the Neurological Foundation about projects and support for those dealing with neurological conditions.
