Research methodologies
The NPBD Unit measures and assesses neurocognitive function and related biomarkers using a range of innovative research methodologies.
Neurocognitive testing
We conduct paper-based and computerised neurocognitive assessments using:
- Computerised Mental Performance Assessment (COMPASS) battery, developed to capture the effects of nutritional interventions on cognitive performance
- Cognitive Drug Research (CDR) battery used in over 1000 clinical trials, including those assessing effects of food ingredients and supplements.
- Tailored cognitive assessments that can be marked and paired with neuro-imaging methods (E-PRIME)
- Validated and tailored infant/child assessments under parallel testing procedures and sensitive to physiological change.
- Psychiatric, Stress and mood assessments
Neuroimaging
Salford University and collaborating institutions house a variety of neuroimaging technologies to study cognition, development, decision-making and brain metabolomics.
- Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS).
- Electroencephalography (EEG)- Housed/ collaboration with Lancaster University.
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
- Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) Housed/ collaboration at Salford Royal Hospital.
- Magnetic Resolution Spectroscopy (MRS) Housed/ collaboration at Salford Royal Hospital.
Cognition-relevant biomarkers
We have the capability to study the biomarkers from different bio fluids (blood, saliva, urine) and their relationship to cognitive performance such as:
- Reactive Oxygen Species (Oxidative stress).
- Nutrient levels (e.g. vitamins, blood glucose etc.)
- Proteomics (salivary proteome analysis) – In collaboration with University of Sheffield.
- Cytokines (i.e. Inflammation and immunity)
- Hormones (i.e. stress hormones, sex hormones, gut hormones)