Neuroscience

Researchers identify major genetic risk factor for rare form of dementia

Antwerp, 12 March 2026 - Researchers at VIB and Antwerp University have identified a major genetic risk factor for a rare form of frontotemporal dementia. The discovery, published today in Nature Genetics, provides a biological entry point for a disease subtype that has been difficult to study. It could not only help to improve diagnosis and patient stratification, but also opens up new avenues toward targeted treatments.

Brain immune cells may help build Alzheimer’s plaques

A new study led by researchers from VIB and KU Leuven shows that immune cells called microglia can actively promote the formation of plaques in Alzheimer’s disease, challenging the long-standing view that these cells serve only as defenders against plaque buildup. The findings were recently published in PNAS.

Researchers uncover axonal protein synthesis defect in ALS

Leuven, January 12, 2026 – Researchers at VIB and KU Leuven have identified a molecular process that allows motor neurons to maintain protein production, a process that fails in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The study, published in Nature Neuroscience, reveals an early weakness in neurodegeneration and highlights a potential target for future therapies.

New immune process identified that may alleviate Alzheimer's disease

Same symptoms, different biology

Researchers uncover new insights into diverging disease mechanisms in ALS

Researchers identify molecular brake that regulates synaptic maturation

Researchers at VIB-KU Leuven shed light on an unusual signaling pathway that orchestrates synaptic structure and function during brain development.

Researchers develop model that predicts onset of Alzheimer’s disease

Scientists create protein ‘seeds’ that trigger key pathological features of ALS and frontotemporal dementia

A new view on 300 million years of brain evolution

Scientists use deep learning to compare gene regulation in different cell types of human and chicken brains

Research reveals unique features of brain cells linked to neurodevelopmental conditions

Tiny antennas on cells offer new ALS insights

Leuven researchers discover new connectivity rules in the brain’s visual network