Neural degeneration invariably accompanies aging, yet some elders are able to maintain excellent cognitive function. The capacity to sustain function in the face of aging and illness is called cognitive reserve. Knowledge of the neural basis underlying cognitive reserve would inform treatment strategies for cognitive decline and dementia. This Mentored Research Scientist Development Award (K01) will provide Dr. Bruce Luber with the necessary training and skills to become an independent investigator with expertise in the neural basis of cognitive reserve, applying innovative tools that may ultimately lead to novel interventions for age related memory loss. Cognitive reserve is thought to be mediated by two mechanisms: (1) resilience of existing neural networks to the effects of aging (neural reserve), and (2) compensation through enlistment of new networks. Functional neuroimaging studies have generated hypotheses regarding the neural basis of these aspects of cognitive reserve, but cannot test causal relationships. This K01 will equip the candidate to test the neural basis of both aspects of cognitive reserve, using image-guided noninvasive brain stimulation.
The specific aims are: to identify neural reserve and compensation networks related to working memory in the elderly using fMRI and advanced multivariate analysis comparing young and older adults (Aim 1), and to validate the functional role of neural reserve (Aim 2) and compensation (Aim 3) networks using fMRI-guided TMS. This work extends the candidate's studies showing that fMRI-guided TMS targeted to a reserve network can improve working memory performance at baseline and following sleep deprivation. The career development plan will provide expertise in: 1) the cognitive neuroscience of aging, 2) the clinical use of TMS, 3) the use of fMRI-guided TMS as a neurobiological probe, 4) clinical trial design and statistical analysis, and 5) systems neuroscience. This training and research experience will position Dr. Luber to achieve his long- term goal to translate an advanced understanding of the mechanisms of cognitive reserve into novel tools to study and ultimately to better treat cognitive decline in the elderly.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Type
Research Scientist Development Award - Research & Training (K01)
Project #
5K01AG031912-02
Application #
7690759
Study Section
National Institute on Aging Initial Review Group (NIA)
Program Officer
Wagster, Molly V
Project Start
2008-09-30
Project End
2013-08-31
Budget Start
2009-09-01
Budget End
2010-08-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2009
Total Cost
$130,396
Indirect Cost
Name
New York State Psychiatric Institute
Department
Type
DUNS #
167204994
City
New York
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
10032
Deng, Zhi-De; McClintock, Shawn M; Oey, Nicodemus E et al. (2015) Neuromodulation for mood and memory: from the engineering bench to the patient bedside. Curr Opin Neurobiol 30:38-43
Westin, Gregory G; Bassi, Bruce D; Lisanby, Sarah H et al. (2014) Determination of motor threshold using visual observation overestimates transcranial magnetic stimulation dosage: safety implications. Clin Neurophysiol 125:142-147
Luber, Bruce; Lisanby, Sarah H (2014) Enhancement of human cognitive performance using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Neuroimage 85 Pt 3:961-70
Luber, Bruce; McClintock, Shawn M; Lisanby, Sarah H (2013) Applications of transcranial magnetic stimulation and magnetic seizure therapy in the study and treatment of disorders related to cerebral aging. Dialogues Clin Neurosci 15:87-98
Luber, Bruce; Lou, Hans C; Keenan, Julian P et al. (2012) Self-enhancement processing in the default network: a single-pulse TMS study. Exp Brain Res 223:177-87