Dr. Mark Mattson is a distinguished neuroscientist whose pioneering work has transformed our understanding of brain health and aging. He currently serves as Adjunct Professor of Neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, following his tenure as Chief of the Laboratory of Neurosciences at the National Institute on Aging. Dr. Mattson earned his PhD in biology from the University of Iowa in 1986 under the late Eugene Spaziani, establishing a research trajectory that has spanned over three decades. His career has been defined by continuous research funding since his predoctoral NIH training grant in 1983, demonstrating sustained excellence in neuroscience research.
Dr. Mattson's groundbreaking research has elucidated the cellular signaling mechanisms that control neuronal network formation and plasticity in the brain, fundamentally advancing our understanding of brain aging and neurodegenerative disorders. His investigations into how the brain responds adaptively to metabolic challenges such as intermittent fasting and exercise have revealed novel pathways that enhance neuronal resilience against age-related decline. His discoveries demonstrate how controlled metabolic stressors can counteract adverse effects of diabetes and obesity on brain function, establishing crucial connections between lifestyle interventions and cognitive health. This work has provided the scientific foundation for modern dietary recommendations now incorporated into numerous health publications worldwide. His extensive publication record in premier journals including Nature, Neuron, and the Journal of Neuroscience reflects the significance and impact of his contributions to the field.
Dr. Mattson's contributions have been widely recognized through prestigious honors including election as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the Alzheimer's Association Zenith Award, and the Metropolitan Life Foundation Medical Research Award. His work has fundamentally changed how we approach lifelong brain health, influencing both scientific understanding and public health recommendations across the globe. Beyond his research, Dr. Mattson has actively promoted scientific curiosity in the public realm, translating complex neuroscience concepts into accessible knowledge for broader audiences through public speaking and publications. His ongoing research continues to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying brain resilience, with the goal of developing evidence-based interventions that optimize cognitive function across the human lifespan.
