As leader of the Memory Wellness Program, Dr. Craft's research examines how disruption of systemic and central glucose metabolism may contribute to cognitive changes in normal and pathological aging, including mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Her previous studies have documented that adults with Alzheimer's disease show a reduced sensitivity to insulin, the main peptide that promotes glucose utilization. Dr. Craft and her colleagues have demonstrated that temporarily overriding insulin insensitivity via insulin infusion results in improved memory function in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Her current studies are aimed at elucidating the mechanisms by which insulin facilitates memory in these patients. In particular, she is examining whether insulin is essential for promoting glucose utilization in brain regions that support memory function, and if so, at what dose does insulin provide optimal facilitation. Recent studies are focused on novel administration of insulin via nasal inhalation, the use of insulin sensitizing medications in patients with cognitive impairment, and the effects of acute metabolic challenges on insulin function and cognition. The results of these studies will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of Alzheimer's disease as a disorder involving mechanisms that affect both body and mind, and hopefully offer new approaches to therapeutic treatment of this devastating disorder.
Dr. Craft also serves as a faculty mentor and supervisor for clinical psychology interns and postdoctoral fellows from a variety of disciplines. Please follow the links below for additional information

 

Studies/MWP page
American Lake Clinical Psychology Internship
Training Grant Fellowship
VA GRECC Fellowship