A YOUNG bright spark from Inverclyde has been chosen to work on a major research project into Alzheimer's disease.

Jamie Morris, who is a sixth year pupil at Inverclyde Academy, spent his summer holidays working alongside experts at Glasgow Caledonian University.

As part of the groundbreaking research, Jamie looked at how cells can be protected from the damage sustained during Alzheimer's, impressing experts with his work.

Jamie said: "We looked at the Nrf2 gene as everybody has this gene.

"It can protect you from Alzheimer's.

"So we studied at how it works and how it can protect people against the condition and how, despite its presence, some people can still suffer from it."

Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia in the UK.

Dementia is a syndrome associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning which can affect memory, thinking skills and other mental abilities.

Jamie, who hopes to work in field of medical research in the future, said it was a great experience to work with leading experts including at the world renowned facility.

He said: "It gave me good experience and it allowed me a proper insight into what it's like to study science at the top level.

"That's what I would like to do when I leave school as I find it very interesting.

"There's so much good you can do - and you never stop learning."

After carrying out the research, Jamie, who achieved five straight As for his Highers, also delivered a presentation in front of medical experts from across the world at The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

His biology teacher Miss Lesley-Anne Couper said Jamie has a bright future ahead of him.

She said: "He's a fantastic pupil.

"I think we have a science star in the making.

"The research project he was working on could be a breakthrough in terms of looking for cures for Alzheimer's."

Jamie, who is the school dux, says his parents Carolann and James are both 'very proud of him'.