Dr David Koss, University of Dundee
“As a researcher of Dementia with Lewy bodies for nearly 10 years and having only recently started my own research lab in the School of Medicine at the University of Dundee, I was delighted to be awarded a Lewy Body Society grant in the last funding round.
Our newly formed team focuses on the role that damage to our DNA plays in the development and progression of various dementias. The recent support from the Lewy Body Society has enabled us to look more closely at the relationship between DNA maintenance and a protein known as alpha-synuclein. Alpha-synuclein is a key protein in the disease process of Dementia with Lewy bodies, which becomes modified to form Lewy bodies. Whilst the protein’s normal role in brain cell communication has been the focus of much research, we and others have demonstrated that it is also important in protecting our genes. Our genes are made up of DNA and act as a cellular blueprint, required to replace and repair all cell components as we age.
Previous funding from the Lewy Body Society supported myself and Prof Tiago Outeiro in demonstrating the presence of alpha-synuclein in the nucleus, a specialised DNA compartment of cells. We demonstrated that in brain tissue donated by those with Dementia with Lewy bodies, alpha-synuclein is modified and this occurred alongside excessive damage to the DNA.
Damage to our DNA prevents brain cells from functioning normally and this may underlie some key symptoms of the disease. This current award is allowing us to identify exactly which genes interact with alpha-synuclein normally and how, with disease, this changes. It will tell us what components of brain cells are no longer replaced and why they stop working. In turn, we may be able to better support the cells to function and thus reduce symptoms and progression of the disease.
Support for research into the causes of this disease is desperately needed, as currently there are no effective treatments. Our latest award has been particularly important for me, as it represents one of the first external funding sources for my new lab. This not only ensures that we can further build on the insights gained by previous Lewy body Society support but has enabled the expansion of our team, including our new postdoctoral researcher, Dr Lauren O’Neill.
In her PhD, Lauren investigated early pre-symptomatic changes in a model of Dementia with Lewy bodies, with a focus on early hyperexcitability, inflammation and energy production. Lauren is dedicated to better understanding the causes of Dementia with Lewy bodies. I am thrilled that the award has provided an opportunity to support and nurture an excellent scientist, who will continue to advance our understanding, long after the research project.”
Dr O’Neill added: “I couldn’t be more grateful to the Lewy Body Society for facilitating this pivotal transition in my early career. In the seven months, I have spent working with Dr David Koss and his fantastic lab, I have acquired a plethora of relevant skills, not only lab techniques pertinent to my project, but also skills that will support my growth as an early-career researcher. Being awarded the opportunity to work in a laboratory where I feel excited to come to work every day and intend to continue this avenue of research is something I will always be incredibly grateful for. I can’t thank the Lewy Body Society enough.”
We welcome applications to our current £500,000 grant round for projects that will increase our understanding of Lewy body dementia as well as improving care for people living with this condition and their families and carers.
Find out more about how to apply for Lewy Body Society funding here. The deadline for applications: 5pm, Friday, 10 April, 2026.
