Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the second most common form of dementia that affects younger people and is the focus of a new thematic series from Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy and a forthcoming scientific conference.

It is reported that 15 to 20 of 100,000 individuals aged between 45 to 64 years, in Western countries, are affected; placing a large economic burden on society and indicating an international prevalence of the disease.

The genetic mutation responsible for FTD was identified in 2011, as a pathogenic expansion of the GGGGCC hexanucleotide repeat in the intron region of the chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9ORF72) gene. The disease is known as FTD or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) linked to chromosome 9 (c9FTD/ALS).

Thematic series
To collate the avalanche of recent research, BioMed Central’s Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy has launched a thematic series on ‘the new FTD mutation on chromosome 9’, guest edited by Professor Bruce Miller (UCSF). The series covers a range of topics from genetics to imaging to treatment.

The thematic series contains a collection of reviews, including Bradley Boeve and Neill Graff-Radford (Mayo clinic) reviewing the major new findings in c9FTD/ALS, and Jamie Fong and colleagues discussing the genetic counseling considerations for individuals and their families considering genetic testing for the pathogenic C9ORF72 expansion. Bryan Traynor and Jennifer Schymick review the progress in genetics between ALS and FTD and how these new insights have broadened and unified current concepts in neurodegeneration.

Research submitted to this special series is entitled to a 50% article-processing charge discount; please quote ‘alzrtFTD50’ on submission to use this offer or contact editorial@alzres.com to enquire about the suitability of a study.

The 8th International Conference on Frontotemporal Dementias
Held on 5-7th September in Manchester, UK, the 8th International Conference on Frontotemporal Dementias provides clinicians and researchers with a platform for exchanging knowledge about the latest developments in FTD.

The multidisciplinary programme addresses clinical diagnosis, management and care, epidemiology and neuropsychology, as well as other disciplines. The forum enables delegates to discuss causation, the development of rational therapies and improving the management and care of patients.

For further information regarding the meeting, please contact the Organising Secretariat.