FTD is varied in the way it presents. Some patients have changes in behaviour and personality while others have progressive loss of language ability (aphasia). The underlying brain pathology is also heterogeneous. Some show tau-positive inclusion pathology in neurones while others deposit a newly discovered protein (TDP-43). In a third of cases, genetic factors play a major role and, to date, tau gene mutations have been discovered. Compared to Alzheimer's disease, much less is known about the clinical course, impact, and cellular changes. Professor Hodges and his team of researchers aim to advance knowledge on a broad front by using a range of research methods (neuropsychology, behavioural measures, brain imaging, etc) and to improve the care, management, and, ultimately, the treatment of this disease. Research on FTD lends itself to a multidisciplinary approach.
