Psychology and Biology: VU Neuroscience Laboratory
Our goal is to create an interdisciplinary research space that facilitates collaboration and enhances learning opportunities for our undergraduate neuroscience students. We will apply Giving Day funds toward upgrading our current lab with the scientific technology and materials needed for hands-on experience.
Dr. Michael Hanna (Department of Biology) and Dr. Paige Kuhle (Department of Psychology) are developing an interdisciplinary neuroscience lab focused on researching preventative strategies and treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Both experts on the aging brain, Michael and Paige have conducted significant research at UCI and TCU, particularly on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
This new lab will provide undergraduate students with a unique opportunity to research preventative strategies for Alzheimer’s disease and study behavioral and cognitive deficits associated with Parkinson’s disease. By participating in this research, students will contribute to the search for a cure and support those battling these devastating diseases.
Undergraduates rarely have the chance to learn technical lab skills, such as measuring cognition and biological markers of Alzheimer’s disease. Thus, in this lab, students will gain hands-on experience in the lab, preparing them for graduate school. Michael and Paige are dedicated to mentoring students in neuroscience, watching them grow into young scientists who can serve our God, community and patients affected by these diseases.
How will funds be used?
We will use these funds to establish and equip our new lab space, which currently lacks essential scientific tools. These resources will support the purchase of a wide range of equipment critical for our research, including ventilated cages for proper rat housing, behavioral testing tools, sophisticated software, and biological instruments.
Our lab focuses on neuroscience research into cognitive health and Alzheimer’s disease prevention. Rat models play a vital role in this research, as they help us understand brain function and the impact of diet on cognitive health. Proper housing, such as ventilated cages, is necessary to maintain health standards for both animals and researchers.
Under Dr. Kuhle’s guidance, we are specifically investigating the effects of nutritional interventions, such as a specialized Mediterranean diet for rats, on cognitive function. Using advanced software, behavioral testing, and other specialized tools, we measure cognition and track pre-clinical indicators of Alzheimer’s disease. Together, these resources will enable us to conduct comprehensive studies on how dietary strategies might help reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Your support is essential in making this lab a reality and advancing our research goals.
Student Impact
“Research has given me the opportunity to expand my research skills and has shown me how to take what I have learned in the classroom. Having a dedicated research space will allow students such as myself to perform more in-depth research and would position students to better succeed in graduate programs.” VU Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) Student
Why are donations necessary?
Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, are fatal. Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S., with 40% of cases potentially preventable through lifestyle changes. Dr. Kuhle’s research focuses on nutritional strategies to reduce Alzheimer’s risk factors. In her VU nutritional neuroscience course, students learn about brain-healthy diets like the Mediterranean diet.
The new lab space is crucial for student growth, offering hands-on research opportunities essential for their learning and preparation for Ph.D. programs. However, the lab needs updates and equipment for students to succeed. Contributions will enhance student training, providing vital research experience for graduate school and their future careers.