Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, are conditions that negatively impact the brain in millions of people worldwide. Common symptoms include difficulties with remembering things, solving problems and motor control.

Scientists have been using special brain scans (e.g. MRI) and genetic analysis to understand why these diseases happen. They have revealed how changes in brain structure and associations with certain genes play a role in these illnesses.

Our project belongs to a research field called "radiogenomics," which analyzes both brain scans and genetic information together. The combination of both types of information provides a fuller picture of the disease. But there is a challenge: the large amount of complex information from scans and genes is difficult to interpret.

To solve this problem, we use deep learning– a smart type of computer program that can spot important patterns in complex data.

Another part of our research looks at tiny bubbles called exosomes, which are released from cells. These bubbles carry messages and can tell us a lot about what's happening in the brain without needing to do any surgery.

By using these advanced techniques, we hope to predict how these diseases will progress, find new treatments, and even tailor treatments to fit a person's unique genetic makeup. This could change the game in fighting neurodegenerative diseases. It could lead to earlier diagnosis, better treatments, and more understanding of how these conditions work, making a big difference for people and their families.