Diet and cognition
The multidisciplinary diet and cognitive research team comprises of experts in cellular and molecular nutrition, brain physiology, behavioural psychology, cognitive assessment and brain imaging (fMRI).
This network was formed to enable a strong scientific platform for the investigation of the role diet plays in modulating memory, learning and neuro-cognitive performance. The group constitutes part of the Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics (CINN), which houses a 3T Siemens Trio research-dedicated MRI scanner as well as extensive facilities for neuroscience research.
“Our goal is to develop novel dietary or therapeutic strategies to delay brain ageing, cognitive decline and cardiovascular disease, including stroke and vascular dementia.”
Collaboration
The team have received significant BBSCRC and MRC research grant funding and have established extensive research collaborations with industry, including Symbioscience, Nestle and Unilever.
A particular research strength of the group is the assessment of the efficacy of plant bioactives, such as flavonoids, towards human cognitive performance, cerebrovascular function, neuroinflammatory status and associated mechanisms of action.