Nat/Sci In-Person: Aging Brain

The Aging Brain: Understanding and Preserving Cognitive Health
Four In-Person Sessions
Wed., Feb. 19, 26, Mar. 5, 12, 2025, 6:30-8:30 pm MT

Embark on a fascinating journey into the world of neuroscience in this groundbreaking course on the aging brain. Led by research assistant professor and neuroscientist Dr. Daniel Paredes, the class is designed for curious minds of all backgrounds. It examines cutting-edge approaches that uncover the mysteries of the human brain and guides you through the intricate processes of brain aging while giving you state-of-the-art strategies to maintain your own cognitive vitality and health.

Over three engaging lectures plus a hands-on laboratory session, you explore the frontiers of brain science under Paredes' expert guidance. Unravel the complexities of neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, discover how lifestyle choices and diet can slow cognitive decline, and learn about the promising realm of natural and traditional medicines. Paredes, who also served as a postdoctoral fellow at the National Institutes of Health, showcases how his team at DU’s Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging is revolutionizing our understanding of the aging brain through artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies. From AI-powered early detection of brain disorders to machine learning-assisted drug discovery, witness firsthand how these innovations are reshaping neuroscience research and treatment possibilities. And in the 1-hour lab session, hold and observe real human brain tissues, compare healthy and affected neurons under the microscope and participate in AI demonstrations that bring abstract concepts to life.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert and researcher in the field. Empower yourself with knowledge, pioneering tools and a new perspective on healthy aging. Your brain has stories to tell—let's listen and learn together in this extraordinary exploration of the aging brain!

Dr. Daniel Paredes is a research assistant professor at the University of Denver who specializes in new therapeutic approaches to target neuroplasticity and regeneration in neurodegenerative disorders. His current research focuses on how neurochemical profiles change during aging and in pathological conditions even before physical or cognitive symptoms appear, with the aim to detect biomarkers and develop therapeutic targets to treat degenerative disorders such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and Huntington's diseases.