Newcastle University

Understanding the Science of Ageing

Our researchers work at the frontier of science to investigate complex molecular mechanisms in our cells to discover where faults and malfunctioning lead to ageing.

Dementia

We led the world by identifying and explaining dementia with Lewy bodies. Our research continues to discover the causes of this and other forms of dementia such as Alzheimer's Disease - and importantly to find treatments.

Fibrosis

Our researchers have discovered a potentially important breakthrough. Fibrosis (or scarring) may be influenced not just by your lifestyle - susceptibility may be transmitted from one generation to another.

Arthritis

One of the areas of study in Newcastle is a way of modifying stem cells to produce cartilage. When connective tissue breakdown occurs it may be possible in future to replenish it to overcome the onset of arthritis.

Genetics

Our research suggests that damage to mitochondrial DNA could contribute to the ageing process and regular exercise could help improve mitochondrial function. Pioneering research has also revealed how damage to telomeres (molecules found on the ends of chromosomes in the nucleus of body cells) possibly causes age-related diseases.

Newcastle - a centre of excellence in ageing

Researchers are eager to work alongside established experts in Newcastle with access to the best facilities. Dr João Passos, Research Fellow from Portugal is carrying out independent research in cellular ageing, bringing colleagues from Portugal to bolster his team.

Read more about our ageing story.

Interviews with our experts:

Tim Cawston, William Leech Professor of Rheumatology

"We need good imaging, so we can tell how quickly joints are deteriorating...if we succeed in these things it will make a huge difference to a very large number of people."

Patrick Chinnery, Professor of Neurogenetics, Director of the Institute of Genetic Medicine and Director of the Biomedical Research Centre

"We are moving to a situation where genetics will allow us to provide personalised healthcare for people based upon a detailed and deep knowledge of the blueprint that made them up."

Derek Mann, Professor of Hepatology

"If you can find ways of promoting regeneration when it is diminished, as in an older person, then you will be able to counteract the fibrotic process."

Ian McKeith, Professor of Old Age Psychiatry

"Twenty years ago people would have said there’s nothing you can do about dementia. Now we are in a position where there are many things we can do."

Dr Joao Passos, Research Fellow

"When I came to Newcastle I was impressed by everything I saw. So I thought, this is the place I want to be."

Mike Trenell, Professor of Movement and Metabolism

"We’ve got the top qualified clinical physical activity and exercise team in the UK."

Doug Turnbull, Professor of Neurology

"Because I’m a clinician I want to see something that makes a difference to patients and contribute to lifelong health."

Thomas von Zgliniki, Professor of Cellular Gerontology

"We are at a point now where we significantly better understand what ageing in a multi-cellular organism really is, and where it comes from."