Cognition and Dementia

The focus of research is on mechanisms of signal transduction and plasticity underlying cognitive processes. The major aim is to unravel these mechanisms in both health and disease (mainly Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, stroke and Multiple Sclerosis), while at the same time exploring the therapeutic potential of key players in the affected signaling pathways.

Research involves working with in vitro and in vivo models in a translational context up to testing drugs in clinical trials.

Unique contributions and highlights

Research line with secured funding from governmental grants (e.g. NWO, ZonMW, ENW, FWO), foundations (e.g. Alzheimer Netherlands, Charcot Belgium) and Industry. Strong valorisation potential with own and shared intellectual property.

Target identification starts mostly in human tissues. In parallel, signalling is manipulated in models using pharmacological interventions, via (epi)genetic editing including CRISPR/Cas9, or Deep Brain Stimulation. 

Based on these target validation experiments, most promising drugs and extracts to improve signal transduction and plasticity are tested in healthy volunteers and patients. PDE inhibitors and seaweed are highlighted in this context. 

There is also a substantial collaboration with biotech and Industry to develop and test new neurostimulation applications, cognitive enhancers or neuroprotective compounds.