Singapore: Allen David Roses, a renowned neurologist who pioneered breakthrough research in Alzhiemer's Disease, passed away on Sept 30, 2016.

He was one of the first clinical neurologists to apply molecular genetic strategies to neurological diseases. His laboratory reported the chromosomal location for more than 15 diseases, including several muscular dystrophies and Lou Gehrig's disease. He led the team that in 1992 identified APOE as a major, widely confirmed susceptibility gene in common late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Translation of these findings to metabolic-pathway analyses and drug discovery and development continued in GSK, leading to Phase III trials now under way to evaluate the drug rosiglitazone for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Dr. Roses served as Jefferson-Pilot Professor of Neurobiology at Duke University and held several senior positions. Prior to joining Duke, he had a long career with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

He founded his own company, Zinfandel Pharmaceuticals, to conduct clinical trial of his research for prevention of Alzheimer's Disease. The company used pharmacogenetics to improve prediction of risk for Alzheimer's disease and facilitate the development of effective therapies.

Dr. Roses was distinguished as a scientist who challenged the prevailing theories of Alzheimer's Diseases and brought new perspectives of understanding the cause of the disease. 

Dr. Roses was a member of the Science Board of the US Food and Drug Administration between 2003-2007. He was a member of the Board's Subcommittee on Science and Technology that in 2007 authored the report "FDA Science and Mission at Risk."