Projects

Prior Work and Future Projects

See how our past research informs our current, ongoing work.

Recently concluded: Aerobic Exercise Training and Brain Health in Middle-Age: The PulsATILE Trial (targeting cerebral Pulsatility through Aerobic exercise Training in mIddLe agE)

Aerobic exercise in middle age helps preserve brain health and prevent later-life cognitive disease, yet the exact reason this occurs remains unknown. We are conducting a 12-week aerobic exercise clinical trial in middle-aged adults to explore whether changes in brain blood flow and artery function may contribute to the protective effects of exercise on the brain. 

Recently concluded: Resistance Exercise Training and Cerebrovascular Health in Adults

Resistance exercise is widely recommended to preserve muscle function and quality of life with aging, however its effects on cerebrovascular health are far less understood. We are conducting a cross-sectional study examining the relations between exercise training history (resistance, aerobic, and no consistent exercise history) and cerebrovascular function and its implications for mental health. 

Effects of Resistance Exercise Training on Depressive Symptomology and Cerebral Blood Flow in Adults with Depression

This study was recently funded by NIH NIHM and will be updated soon! We are anticipating recruitment beginning in January 2024. Please stay tuned!

Impact of a high sugar mixed meal on cerebrovascular function

Many adults in the US regularly consume meals that are high in both fat and sugar, which may play a role in the development of obesity and type II diabetes and the accompanying risk of cerebrovascular and cognitive disease.