Prestigious Alzheimer’s Researcher Francisco Lopera Dies at 73

Dr. Francisco Lopera, a prominent neurologist known for his work with a particularly large family in Colombia affected by Alzheimer’s, passed away on Tuesday at his residence in Medellín at the age of 73 from metastatic melanoma.

His passing was confirmed in an announcement from the neuroscience team at the University of Antioquia in Medellín, which Dr. Lopera had directed until his retirement last month.

During his nearly four-decade tenure as a professor at the University, Dr. Lopera achieved groundbreaking advances in Alzheimer’s research. He was instrumental in uncovering the genetic roots of the disease within a large family network of approximately 6,000 individuals, of whom approximately 1,200 carried a specific Alzheimer’s-related gene mutation. His research efforts not only deepened our understanding of the genetic factors in Alzheimer’s but also advanced the development of pharmaceutical interventions to delay or prevent the onset of the disease. Additionally, his work contributed to the identification of genetic mutations that could potentially inhibit cognitive decline.

Dr. Lopera’s profound impact on neuroscience and genetic research leaves a lasting legacy in the global fight against Alzheimer’s, touching countless lives through his commitment to understanding and combating this complex disease.