Research projects

“MemoryLane”: Neural plasticity through the lens of gut-brain interactions

The fact that the brain is influenced by the microorganisms that make up the gut microbiome substantially widens the scope of how we need to view human neurocognition and behaviour. Our core hypothesis is that gut bacteria are key in shaping neural plasticity, and, in this way, influence human memory abilities. Changes in gut microbial signalling may contribute to altered neurocognition in individuals who are genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease. MemoryLane’s results will thus also have important implications for an ageing society. Starting Grant funded by the European Research Council.

Gut-immune-brain axis dysfunction in premature neonates.

The project investigates the effects of premature birth and associated gut-immune-brain dysbiosis on longer-term brain development and cognitive function in mouse models and children. Funded by the Austrian Science Fund.

Microbiomes drive planetary health.

Earth’s microbiomes are the foundation of planetary health, as they underpin almost all ecosystem services that humans depend on. As part of this consortium, we test the effects of microbiome modulation on the gut-brain axis in mouse models and in patients with gastrointestinal disorders who receive fecal microbiome transplantation. Funded by the Austrian Science Fund.

Gut microbiome and stress reactivity at risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Depression and Alzheimer’s disease share common underlying mechanisms, one of which is a dysfunctional stress response that is shaped by the gut microbiome. The project will examine the link between gut bacteria and stress reactivity in individuals with genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Funded by the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation.

Hexadirectional coding of social memory.

This project examines whether social navigation and recognition are supported by grid-like codes in the human brain and whether there is a breakdown at risk for Alzheimer’s disease, which is most devastating when patients fail to recognize significant others. Funded by the Austrian Science Fund.