Neuroscientists Dominique de Quervain (left) and Andreas Papassotiropoulos(right) at the University of Basel have been working on the characterisation of the neurobiological and molecular basis of human memory for several years. 

By applying genome-wide studies of large groups of healthy volunteers, they were able to identify important metabolic processes in human memory.

The results of those studies provided the researchers with valuable information for the selection of possible targets for potential drugs against memory impairment. Both the molecular genetic studies and clinical trials are being conducted at the fivision of Cognitive Neuroscience snf the fivision of Molecular Neuroscience of the University of Basel.

The Basel researchers use the large-scale information obtained in these studies to develop newmedicines for memory impairment and have launched a collaboration with AC Immune. Led by Andrea Pfeifer, (right) the biopharmaceutical company is a leader in Alzheimer´s Disease drug development and will bring its extensive knowledge to the collaboration.

The partner project "Human genetics-driven discovery of memory-modulating drugs" will start in March 2012. And the three clinical studies are being supported through a grant of the CTI (Commission of Technology and Innovation) for three years.