Colorado State University researchers are studying dogs’ brains to better understand cognitive decline in humans and uncover insights into diseases, like dementia.

Moreno and other CSU researchers, including close collaborator Dr. Stephanie McGrath, a veterinary neurologist, are leaders in investigating how canine cognitive dysfunction develops in dogs.

Learn how the CSUresearchers featured on 60 Minutes hope to help dogs and people.

60 Minutes featured CSU research into dementia in dogs and its potential to help develop treatments for both dogs and people.

Julie Moreno’s journey from aspiring veterinarian to a leading neuroscientist began at Texas A&M University. Her passion for research was ignited during her undergraduate years, leading her to a PhD program at Colorado State University. Moreno’s work spans from investigating neurotoxic effects of manganese to exploring prion diseases and neurodegeneration. Her current research at CSU focuses on the interaction between neuroinflammation and protein misfolding, with potential therapeutic applications for neurodegenerative disorders.

Assistant Professor Julie Moreno and Ph.D. graduate Amanda Latham from CSU’s Toxicology program discuss the surprising cognitive impacts of urinary tract infections. They explore how UTIs can lead to delirium and neurodegeneration, the role of brain immune cells, and the use of Dunklin Hartley guinea pigs as models for aging human brains. Preliminary results from Moreno’s lab, funded by a pilot grant from the Center for Healthy Aging, are shared.

Assistant Professor Julie Moreno from CSU’s Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences examines the mechanisms that cause brain cell inflammation, leading to Alzheimer’s and other dementias. This discussion delves into the processes of neurodegeneration, Moreno’s lab research on potential therapies, and the new Alzheimer’s drug Aduhelm (Aducanumab), including the debate surrounding its FDA approval.