Adaptive cognitive-motor mechanisms in aging and neurodegenerative disease

Cognitive challenges in the presence of disease, aging, emotional or environmental stress in individuals can impact motor function and motor learning. This phenomenon, known as “cognitive-motor” interference, can adversely affect one’s ability to execute or learn new motor tasks. Cognitive-Motor interference can cause changes in the brain. This concept is crucial in understanding the holistic impact of various stressors on human performance and informs approaches in rehabilitation, therapy, and adaptive strategies for individuals facing these challenges.

Integrating the insights from advanced neuroimaging techniques and the application of digital walkway mats, our research delves into the nuanced interplay between cognitive decline and motor function in the context of aging and neurodegeneration. This investigation aims to uncover the underlying pathomechanics of Cognitive-Motor Interference, offering a panoramic view of how aging and neurodegenerative diseases disrupt the harmonious coordination between cognitive processes and motor abilities. By meticulously analyzing movement patterns alongside cognitive assessments and neuroimaging data, we aspire to chart a course towards innovative therapeutic interventions. These interventions are designed to ameliorate the cognitive and motor challenges faced by aging populations, ultimately enhancing quality of life and promoting sustained independence. Through this comprehensive approach, we hope to pioneer breakthroughs that will significantly advance our understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, echoing the profound impact of foundational research on our grasp of complex biological phenomena.

Research Topic 1: Cross-Modality Imaging Approaches for Brain Health

Research Topic 2: Cognitive and Physical Rehabilitation in Aging & Age-related diseases

Research Topic 3: Adaptive Motor Strategies in Response to Intrinsic and Extrinsic Challenges

Research Topic 1: Cross-Modality Imaging Approaches for Brain Health

Investigating how advanced neuroimaging techniques detect early changes, predict progression and monitor treatments to understand brain health for age-related diseases

This project aims to leverage cutting-edge neuroimaging techniques to uncover early neural alterations, forecast disease trajectories, and evaluate therapeutic interventions. Through a synergistic use of diverse imaging modalities, we intend to illuminate the multifaceted nature of brain changes, paving the way for innovations in diagnosis and personalized medicine.

  • Previous work with the LRNLAB found that free-water imaging in the substantia can distinguish contols from PD and predict progression in PD. We are currently utilizing this technique along imaging modalities and novel analytic techniques to evaluate other brain regions involved and understand consequence of neuroinflammation in AD and individuals that have elevated risk for AD and PD

  • This aim will assess the capacity of techniques such as functional MRI (fMRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), MR spectroscopy to reveal adaptive changes in brain structure and function. By focusing on these modalities, the research seeks to uncover the neural underpinnings of compensation for cognitive and motor decline, providing insights into resilience mechanisms in the aging brain and pathological conditions.

Research Topic 2: Cognitive and Physical Rehabilitation in Aging and Age-related diseases

Defining mechanisms of motor control for personalized outcomes and therapeutic well-being

The project aims to explore and enhance the interplay between cognitive functions and physical health in the aging population. Focused on addressing the unique challenges posed by age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and others, this initiative leverages cutting-edge research in neuroimaging, biomechanics, and therapeutic interventions. By integrating cognitive training with physical rehabilitation techniques, the project seeks to develop holistic, evidence-based strategies that improve cognitive resilience, motor function, and overall quality of life for older adults.

  • Previous work has shown that distinct visuomotor mechanisms influence motor control, motor variability, and motor learning. We are currently understanding how these unique patterns and mechanisms of motor control infuence how individuals rehab in the presence of injury, disease, and aging.

  • We decide to explore the extent to which personalized interventions can enhance motor abilities, improve daily functioning, and increase overall quality of life. The investigation will leverage a combination of advanced neuroimaging, biomechanical assessments, and patient-reported outcomes to assess the impact of tailored therapeutic regimens on motor control challenges.

Research Topic 3: Adaptive Motor Strategies in response to Intrinsic and Extrinsic Challenges

This project delves into the sophisticated realm of motor adaptation, challenging ways in which individuals recalibrate their motor responses in the face of internal and external stressors. This scholarly inquiry spans a breadth of conditions—from genetic disorders like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease to the systemic impacts of conditions such as sepsis. This ambitious exploration not only promises to extend our theoretical understanding of motor system resilience but also seeks to translate these insights into practical rehabilitation methodologies, offering enhanced outcomes for individuals grappling with a spectrum of neurological challenges.

Assessing the extent proximal and distal factors impact motor resilience and health

  • This aim investigates the effects of diverse environments on motor resilience and adaptation mechanisms. It seeks to understand how varying environmental stressors, from local areas to extreme weather conditions, influence the brain's and body's ability to adjust motor responses over time. By exploring these dynamics, the research will contribute to a deeper understanding of how external factors shape motor skills, potentially leading to improved strategies for enhancing motor function and health in changing environments

  • We explore how genetic predispositions and variations influence individuals' capacity to adapt their motor responses to internal and external challenges. By examining specific genetic markers and their associations with motor resilience and adaptation capabilities, the research aims to identify genetic influences that may predispose individuals to better or worse motor outcomes in the face of neurological challenges.