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Headlines 19 Neurological research from around the globe  The Netherlands Erasmus University Rotterdam Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD) is a formof human prion disease, which causes specific proteins to form incorrectly and accumulate in the brain, which can only be confirmed post mortemor by a brain biopsy. There are seven different subtypes of this disease, each with its own symptoms, requiring different clinical management. Researchers fromErasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam in the Netherlands have developed a method using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to determine the specific subtype of sCJD in living patients. This will increase their access to relevant care and appropriate symptommanagement. Germany Heidelberg University Hospital Wilson disease (WD) is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the gene responsible for processing copper. This results in accumulation of copper in the organs, particularly the brain and liver, resulting in organ damage, impairment of motor function (neurological deficits) and onset of mental illness (psychiatric disorders). Researchers from Heidelberg University Hospital have found a new marker called metallothionein, which appears to be an extremely specific biomarker for accurate diagnosis of WD. This could help with earlier identification of patients who may have WD, as it is complex to diagnose. China Soochow University Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive form of brain cancer and there is currently no cure. This is due to challenges in developing a treatment that can first, cross the blood- brain barrier and second, target cancer cells but not healthy brain tissue. A team from Soochow University have engineered a type of protein that can be given in the blood, which can successfully cross the blood-brain barrier and selectively target only GBM cells without affecting healthy brain tissue. This holds promise for the development of successful GBM treatments. Australia Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a disorder that affects the part of the brain responsible for coordination, eye movement and speech. It is caused by the accumulation of a protein, called tau, in the brain. A clinical trial using sodium selenate as a treatment for PSP is underway at six hospitals and research institutes across Australia. This study will evaluate whether sodium selenate can modify the disease course to reduce symptoms and increase quality of life for people with PSP. . Like all sciences, neuroscience is collaborative. New Zealand researchers make an important contribution to the global effort to better understand the brain and nervous systems, and to develop better treatments for neurological disorders. Here are some of the studies into rare disorders taking place overseas that we are keeping an eye on. Please note the Neurological Foundation doesn’t contribute funding to any of these projects. References neurological.org.nz/aroundtheglobe