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Dr Jeff Davies
Name:
Dr Jeffrey Davies
Job Title:
Associate Professor of Molecular Neurobiology
Place of work / study:
Swansea University
Area of research?
My research laboratory, based at the Institute for Life Sciences, explores how changes in metabolic status affect brain function. We focus on understanding the mechanisms through which circulating hormones, regulated by feeding, protect against nerve cell loss associated with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
A key interest of mine is understanding how these circulating hormones modulate neural stem cell (NSC) plasticity in adults to promote the generation of new nerve cells, supporting memory function. These fundamental studies are essential for advancing our understanding of brain function and aim to combat age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Tell us a little about yourself:
I have over 20 years of experience in neuroscience and neuroendocrinology research. As a Principal Investigator in the Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory at the Institute for Life Sciences, I also lead the Biomarkers & Genes theme within the School of Medicine.
My laboratory investigates how altered metabolism affects brain function, with a particular focus on neural stem cell physiology. With funding from the MRC and the Royal Society, I have demonstrated that the stomach hormone, acyl-ghrelin, enhances the formation of new neurons in the adult brain and improves memory function (Kent et al., 2015). Building on this, I have also shown that calorie restriction, which increases circulating acyl-ghrelin levels, enhances hippocampal neurogenesis and memory in a ghrelin-receptor-dependent manner (Hornsby et al., 2016). These studies have highlighted the critical role of physiological ghrelin in mechanisms governing adult brain plasticity.
My ongoing research aims to:
- Identify the mechanisms underlying this effect on plasticity.
- Understand the role of unacylated-ghrelin in brain plasticity.
- Characterise the role of these hormones in human neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease.
I have published more than 30 scientific manuscripts and book chapters and have been awarded intellectual property related to my research.
In addition to my research, I teach Physiology and Neuroscience across all undergraduate and postgraduate levels. My teaching focuses on the regenerative capacity within the adult brain, with a particular emphasis on research-led teaching in the area of adult hippocampal neurogenesis.
I am also actively involved in promoting Welsh language learning and teaching provision within the Medical School.
