Renowned Colombian Doctor Francisco Lopera Restrepo Passes Away at 73

Francisco Lopera Restrepo, a Colombian doctor who dedicated his life to studying Alzheimer’s disease, has passed away in Medellín at the age of 73. Lopera was associated with the University of Antioquia (UdeA) for decades and made significant contributions to the field of neuroscience.

The University of Antioquia (UdeA) paid tribute to Lopera, saying, “With deep sadness, admiration, and gratitude, we say goodbye today to an invaluable human being, a thorough professional, an inspiring teacher, and a curious and creative researcher who followed a path in the fight against Alzheimer’s.”

A Legacy of Research and Discovery

Lopera directed the Antioquia Neuroscience Group, affiliated with the UdeA, for 40 years. During this time, he coordinated research on Alzheimer’s and made important advances in understanding the mutations that cause this disease. His work earned him several international recognitions.

Last April, Lopera received the prestigious Potamkin Award for Research in Pick, Alzheimer’s, and Related Diseases, awarded by the American Academy of Neurology and the American Brain Foundation. This award is considered the most prestigious recognition in the field of research into neurodegenerative diseases worldwide.

The ‘Paisa Mutation’ Discovery

Lopera identified the ‘paisa mutation,’ which causes early dementia, after investigating over 6,000 people in the department of Antioquia who suffer from this disorder. This discovery has contributed significantly to the world’s understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegenerative diseases.

Yakeel T. Quiroz, a professor at Harvard Medical School, praised Lopera’s work, saying, “The work led by Dr. Lopera with Colombian families with Alzheimer’s disease, for almost 40 years, has contributed significantly to the knowledge that the world has about this disease and neurodegenerative diseases.”

A Life of Dedication and Service

Lopera was born in the town of Santa Rosa de Osos (Antioquia) and dedicated his life to studying and fighting Alzheimer’s disease. He announced his retirement on August 15 due to health complications caused by a type of cancer.

Lopera’s legacy will live on through his contributions to the field of neuroscience and the countless lives he touched through his work.