Nourishing Cognitive Resilience: Investigating Diet and Biomarkers in Midlife Aging

Research project description

PhD will investigate the potential effectiveness of dietary habit adjustments and other interventions in predicting and mitigating the risk of MCI and AD among middle-aged adults. ` 

This research project aims to comprehensively explore the mechanisms that impact the aging process, with a specific focus on understanding the influence of environmental factors, especially diet. Studies suggest that low-calorie diets might positively influence cognitive function and aging-related changes in brain health and cognition. In addition, existing knowledge highlights that diets rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats are associated with a diverse and beneficial gut microbiota, fostering cognitive well-being and resilience against age-related cognitive decline. Conversely, diets rich in high-calorie, processed foods may disrupt the balance of gut microbiota, potentially triggering neuroinflammation and heightening susceptibility to cognitive aging. This exploration is crucial for comprehending conditions like mild cognitive impairment (MCI), serving as an intermediary stage between normal aging and significant cognitive decline disorders, such as Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). 

Despite the undeniable influence of biological and genetic factors on aging, a focus on modifiable factors becomes paramount for unraveling the complexities of MCI and its potential progression to AD. Moreover, intervening during midlife presents opportunities to prevent or mitigate later-life risk factors. Our proposal merges an analysis encompassing macro- and micronutrients, minerals, vitamins, and diverse dietary patterns with the evaluation of key biomarkers, including plasma hormones, pro-inflammatory parameters and intestinal health markers, on cognitive function, examined alongside through a neuropsychological assessment. The primary goal is to scrutinize the potential effectiveness of dietary habit adjustments and other interventions in predicting and mitigating the risk of MCI and AD among middle-aged adults. 

This project will not only facilitate our understanding of the intricate relationship between lifestyle factors and cognitive health but also establish a foundation for developing predictive models for future dementia. 

Academic background / Skills

Candidates must hold a degree that allows admission to the official doctoral programme at UAB.  

Additional requirements for a stronger application are: 

Candidates should showcase a vocation for research and a keen interest in addressing mental health challenges. Eligibility for the PhD in Neuroscience program at UAB requires meeting academic prerequisites, including accreditation of 300 ECTS credits and proficient English speaking and writing skills. Highly regarded qualifications include: 

• Previous studies in Health Psychology, Neuropsychology, Neuroscience, Medicine, or related fields such as Biomedicine, Statistics or Biology. 
• A strong academic track record. 
• Experience in handling and analyzing quantitative data. 
• Experience or prior work on the proposed research area.  

Research group/s description

Cognition, Aging and Diet research group endeavors to comprehensively explore the brain mechanisms driving the aging process and assess the influence of specific environmental factors on these mechanisms. We aim to investigate the impact of diets, such as caloric restriction (CR), and the use of compounds that modulate epigenetic mechanisms (like substances regulating histone acetylation activity) on cognitive processes in aged rats. This research encompasses male and female rats spanning different age groups, evaluating cognitive function across asymptomatic, prodromal, and symptomatic stages of impairment. Our experimental approach involves a combination of behavioral, histological, biochemical, and proteomic analyses. Additionally, we are initiating research to explore the effects of diverse lifestyle factors and biomarkers on cognitive decline among middle-aged patients. The results from our investigations hold potential significance in developing behavioral strategies that foster healthier aging.  

e-Mental Health, Prevention, and Epidemiology in Neuropsychiatric Disorders research group. The group’s objective is to conduct multidisciplinary research across various areas, including neurodegenerative diseases, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, autism, depression, mental illness, epilepsy, neurovascular diseases, multiple sclerosis, and genetic-based developmental malformations. The primary goal is to enhance functionality and prevent illnesses. Major research focuses include the application of new digital technologies for diagnosing and treating mental health pathologies, promoting mental health in the young adult population, and translational research to develop specific markers and biomarkers for diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.