Could AI and data science help us find a cure for Alzheimer’s with Prof. Alejo Nevado-Holgado
An estimated 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia, of which Alzheimer’s is the most common form. This number continues to rise as global populations age. Despite the scale of the problem and large amounts of funding, no one has been able to find a cure. Could it be that data science, rather than medicine, holds the answers to tackling this disease?In this episode of Tech Tomorrow, David Elliman speaks with Alejo Nevado-Holgado, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Oxford and member of the Big Data Institute. He leads AI research within the Computational and Molecular Neuroscience Laboratory, an interdisciplinary team spanning AI, biochemistry, and bioinformatics.The conversation explores how advanced computational methods are using vast biological and clinical datasets, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, stem cell imaging, brain scans, and electronic health records. This integrated approach aims to uncover disease mechanisms, identify new drug targets, and advance more personalized treatments, all supported by high-performance computing.A key challenge in Alzheimer’s research is the difficulty of accessing and studying the brain. The blood-brain barrier limits treatment delivery, while the disease develops over decades before symptoms appear. The discussion also highlights ongoing scientific uncertainty about whether hallmark features such as amyloid plaques and tau tangles are causes of the disease or downstream effects.The episode examines how AI can support early detection through blood-based biomarkers and why it is particularly effective in analysing complex, high-dimensional data such as molecular structures and genomic information. The importance of combining diverse datasets, such as population-scale biobanks and drug discovery data, is emphasised as essential for progress.However, challenges remain, including the need for explainable AI systems and more complete longitudinal health data. The conversation also touches on emerging techniques like AI-driven molecular simulations, which may help predict how drugs interact within the brain.Episode Highlights01:07 – The background of Alejo’s project.02:25 – Why are Alzheimer's and dementia so hard to treat?05:50 – How can neurodegenerative brain diseases be prevented?07:05 – Drug discovery and machine learning.09:43 – David’s Thoughts: Multi-modal data.10:29 – Why high-quality data is so hard to access.14:55 – Why AI explainability remains an issue.17:06 – David’s Thoughts: A black box within a black box.19:23 – The UK Biobank and rich medical data.23:54 – Wrap up.About Zühlke:Zühlke is a global transformation partner, with engineering and innovation at its core. We help clients envision and build their businesses for the future – running smarter today while adapting for tomorrow’s markets, customers, and communities.Our multidisciplinary teams specialise in technology strategy and business innovation, digital solutions and applications, and device and systems engineering. We thrive in complex, regulated sectors such as healthcare and finance, connecting strategy, implementation, and operations to help clients build more effective and resilient businesses.Links:Zühlke WebsiteZühlke on LinkedInDavid Elliman on LinkedInProf. Alejo Nevado-Holgado BioDementia Research Oxford WebsiteUK Biobank Website
