Harnessing advances in neuroscience

Each year hundreds of millions of people die from over a thousand neurological disorders for which we have yet to find a cure. We are harnessing advances in neuroscience to improve the lives of patients and their families.

Discover and diagnose

Graphic depicting head and brain

We are unravelling the mysteries of the nervous system

Our research is providing a better understanding of the complexity of the nervous system. We unite scientists, clinicians and engineers to discover the causes of neurological conditions so that we can improve the lives of people with dementia, motor neurone disease, autism, Parkinson’s disease, sensory disorders, chronic pain and the after effects of stroke.

A group of Translational Neuroscience technicians hard at work.

Specialist facilities

We have a vast range of disease models, patient biosamples and innovative imaging technology, including our world-renowned SITraN facility and a new combined PET-MRI scanner, to help transform our understanding of neurological disorders.

Our capabilities

Scientist getting samples from storage

Patient model systems of neurodegenerative diseases

We are developing models of cells in the nervous system using patient skin cells and we are using these models to find new potential treatments.

New disease models

Chronic nerve pain

Study reveals link between neuropathic pain and ‘dark matter’ in cells

Our research could pave the way for new treatments for patients suffering with chronic nerve pain.

Chronic nerve pain discovery

MRI brain scan

Improving diagnosis for Alzheimer's

We have discovered a biomarker linked to the development of Alzheimer’s Disease that could lead to a new way of screening.

Alzheimer’s biomarker

Understand and transform

Graphic depicting brain and wellbeing

We are improving quality of life

Our research is informed by close collaboration with patient groups to pioneer new technologies and treatments. We are supporting patients to manage their symptoms and minimise disability. Researchers are developing tools that explain conditions and help patients make informed choices about their care.

Head up collar

The Head Up Collar

Our researchers are transforming the lives of motor neurone disease patients by giving them back some independence – with the help of NASA technology.

MND neck support

Neuroscience trigeminal nerve graft

Repairing nerves with 3D printing

Our researchers are using a unique library of human tissue – and biocompatible 3D printed materials – to improve patient treatment and quality of life.

Repairing the trigeminal nerve

myBreathing homepage

Patient and public involvement in research

We are making sure people living with neurodegenerative disorders have access to the information they need to make decisions about their care.

MyMND resources

researcher showing head up collar to patients

Enhancing quality of life for MND patients

Our dedicated researchers assess all aspects of MND. From nutritional management, to assessing psychological coping strategies and improving clinical services for patients.

Supporting MND patients

Translate and restore

Graphic depicting range of therapies and diagnostics

We are advancing therapies

Our collaborations with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre and the pharmaceutical industry ensure we can translate basic neuroscience research into experimental medicine studies. Our research investigates therapies tailored to individual patients for better results and uses computational modelling to improve diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.

Researchers in SITraN lab

Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre

The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) is a research partnership between the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, dedicated to improving the treatment and care of people living with chronic neurological disorders.

NIHR collaboration facilities

Scientist using petri dish

Stem cell therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS)

We are pioneering a new treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS), involving stem cell transplantation from the patient's own bone marrow, that has had a life-changing impact on patients.

New MS therapy

Dr Heather Mortiboys leading a team of Parkinson's researchers in a lab

Precision medicine for Parkinson's

By gaining a better understanding of Parkinson's disease, we are working towards potential neuroprotective treatments which could slow down the progression of the disease.

Personalised treatments

Neuron cells system. Conceptual medical image. Glowing synapse. Healthcare concept.

Genetic therapies for motor neuron disorders

Motor neuron disorders have a devastating impact on the lives of those affected. Researchers at SITraN have advanced genetic therapies, giving hope to patients and their families.

Genetic therapies

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