Claudia Metzler-Baddeley

My research focuses on the cognitive and neural mechanisms of ageing and neurodegeneration (Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body disease, Huntington's disease) and on translating findings on neuroplasticity, learning, and memory into complex interventions to help prevent and manage cognitive aging and dementia. My research group uses advanced quantitative multi-parametric MRI techniques to probe brain tissue microstructure with the aim to identify early biomarkers and surrogate imaging marker for clinical trials.

My research group is exploring music-based interventions, which involve the acquisition of complex sensory-motor skills as training approach for cognitive and motor functions in aging and neurodegeneration. We have co-designed a tablet-based rhythmic movement training application (HD-DRUM) to stimulate cognitive and motor functions in people with movement disorders due to Huntington's disease (HD) or Parkinson's disease (DRUM project) as well as a remote piano training (PIANO-Cog) for older adults. Both are currently being assessed in feasibility trials including clinical and MRI assessments.

To study brain phenotypes of aging and dementia risk in asymptomatic adults, I have led the Cardiff Ageing and Risk of Dementia Study (CARDS) that has discovered novel interactions between APOE4 carrier status and obesity on white and grey matter limbic regions suggestive of tissue damage due to inflammation and cardiovascular symptoms.