Notger Müller

Research Group Leader of the Neuroprotection Lab at the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)

Our first line of research focuses on which cognitive training serves best to improve cognitive processes in real life. Our approach is that instead of training a specific ability such as verbal episodic memory we aim at improving a general cognitive function that underlies all other cognitive processes, namely attentional
executive control. We have recently shown that training of this function enhances the frontostriatal
gatekeeper network and improves working memory. In the future we will develop more realistic training tasks using VR and 3D setups and will focus on transfer effects on real life cognitive challenges. Another line of research will elaborate our combined intervention strategies where in the past we have shown that a combination of physical and cognitive challenge has larger effects on neuroplasticity than a single intervention. In the future, further challenges will be added to these interventions, namely simulated altitude training, sleep and non-invasive electric brain stimulation. A third line of research is dedicated to the understanding of individual differences in attentional selection abilities and memory storage capacities and how these may explain individual differences in resilience.

Keywords: interaction of attention and memory – preventive strategies against dementia

Location: DZNE, OVGU (FME)

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