Catch-up – Salon Debate – Animal Models in Dementia Research

Are animal models still useful in dementia research? Join Professor Michael Coleman and Dr Loukia Katsouri for a live debate on 15 Oct at 12pm and have your say in the vote.

Debate Motion:

This House believes that animal models have outlived their usefulness in dementia research.

For decades, animal models, particularly genetically modified mice, have been central to dementia research. But with growing concerns around translational failures, ethics, and advances in human-based models, is it time to move on? Or do animal models still hold essential value in understanding disease mechanisms and testing treatments?

Speaker For the Motion:

Professor Michael Coleman is the van Geest Professor of Neuroscience in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge. Michael leads a team that comprises exceptional researchers from around the world, who work across a variety of disciplines in a highly collaborative environment. His research sits at the interface between basic and clinical neuroscience, translating advances in axon and synapse protection to treat and prevent neurodegenerative diseases.

Speaker Against the Motion:

Dr Loukia Katsouri is a Senior Research Fellow at University College London’s Sainsbury Wellcome Centre. Her research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of tau propagation in Alzheimer’s disease, combining molecular, pharmacological and behavioural approaches to understand how tau drives disease spread, neuronal death and cognitive decline.

What to Expect

Join us for a live online debate where our speakers will present opposing views on the continued relevance of animal models in dementia research. The session will include:

• 10-minute opening statements from each speaker
• Moderated discussion
• Audience Q&A
• Live vote before and after the debate to see if opinions shift

Whether you’re firmly for, firmly against, or somewhere in between, come along and be part of the conversation.