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Dr. Thibault's studies analyze brain mechanisms altered in animal models displaying
characteristics of metabolic syndrome, which may include
hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, diabetes and/or obesity.
The majority of studies of metabolic syndrome rarely investigate effects
on brain function during aging. However, it is increasingly apparent
that peripheral metabolic conditions can affect aging processes in
general, and the course of brain aging in particular. Our interests,
therefore, are in identifying the underlying mechanisms through which
individual components of peripheral metabolic syndrome impact brain
function by focusing on Ca2+-sensitive biomarkers known to be modified
in aging. To this end, the laboratory is working on modifying a glucose
imaging technique to be applied for the first time to studies in the
aging hippocampus. Ultimately, this project is aimed at identifying
novel therapeutic targets that may contribute to prevention of cognitive
decline with aging.
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