Research

The effect of APOE on brain structure and function

Nicola Filippini, Verena Heise, Aaron Trachtenberg, Clare Mackay

Several recent studies have identified a surprisingly strong effect of common genotypes on brain structure and function, leading to the suggestion that these phenotypes are closer to the action of the gene than cognition or behaviour. We are particularly interested in the APOE gene because of its association with late life pathology. We are applying the latest imaging technology to measure brain structure and function in individuals who have been selected on the basis of their genotype. See recent news stories on the university website and BBC.

Abnormalities of brain structure and function in Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder

Clare Mackay, Pablo Paez, Tim Crow, Guy Goodwin

Major psychotic disorders are characterised by extreme changes in behaviour but relatively subtle changes in brain structure. Using the latest imaging techniques we are attempting to resolve the relationship between brain structure and function.

Brain connectivity in old age depression

Claire Sexton, Clare Mackay, Klaus Ebmeier

Depression with an onset later in life is thought to be distinct from the early onset form in that it is commonly associated with vascular pathology. In collaboration with Klaus Ebmeier we are obtaining structural and functional measurements of brain connectivity in patients with early and late onset depression and controls.

Investigating the neural basis of PTSD

Ian Clarke, Corin Bourne, Clare Mackay, Emily Holmes

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is characterised by 'flashbacks' of traumatic experiences. In collaboration with Emily Holmes and her EPACT team, we are developing imaging protocols to assay encoding of traumatic experiences to try to understand how the brain responds differently to information that later causes flashbacks.

Brain structure and function in Parkinson's Disease

Ricarda Menke, Clare Mackay, Michele Hu, Kevin Talbot and the members of the Oxford Parkinson's Disease Centre

We are part of the OPDC - click the link above for more information