Research
My research focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms underlying cognitive function and aging, with particular emphasis on neurotrophic factors and their therapeutic potential. I'm also actively involved in meta-analytic research to synthesize findings across studies and improve research methodology.
Current Projects
IGF2 and Alzheimer's Disease
My primary research project investigates the therapeutic potential of insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF2) for treating and preventing Alzheimer's disease. This work combines experimental studies in animal models with comprehensive literature reviews examining the evidence for IGF2 as a neurotrophic therapeutic agent.
Key findings:
- IGF2 shows promise as both a therapeutic and preventative treatment for AD
- Unlike current AD drugs, IGF2 has favorable safety and tolerability profiles
- IGF2 can cross the blood-brain barrier and targets multiple pathological mechanisms
- Preclinical evidence supports IGF2's ability to enhance cognition and reduce neurodegeneration
Related publication: Insulin-like growth factor-2 is a promising candidate for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease
Meta-Analysis of Cognitive Enhancement Interventions
I'm conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses examining the effectiveness of various interventions designed to enhance cognitive function in healthy adults and clinical populations. This work focuses on identifying which interventions have robust evidence and understanding sources of heterogeneity across studies.
Research Methodology and Reproducibility
I'm involved in several projects aimed at improving research practices in neuroscience and psychology, including developing guidelines for meta-analytic research and investigating sources of bias in the literature.
Publications
Manuscripts in Preparation
- Fitzgerald, G.S., Chuchta, T.G., McNay, E.C. "Insulin-like growth factor-2 is a promising candidate for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease" (narrative review)
- Fitzgerald, G.S., McNay, E.C. "Meta-analytic approaches to neurotrophic factor research: methodological considerations" (methodology paper)
Conference Presentations
- Fitzgerald, G.S. (2024). "IGF2 as a therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review of preclinical evidence." Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting, Chicago, IL.
- Fitzgerald, G.S., McNay, E.C. (2024). "Methodological challenges in meta-analyzing neurotrophic factor research." International Conference on Research Synthesis, Seattle, WA.
Research Interests
- Neurotrophic factors: Understanding how growth factors like IGF2, BDNF, and NGF influence brain health across the lifespan
- Alzheimer's disease therapeutics: Investigating preventative and therapeutic approaches to neurodegenerative diseases
- Cognitive aging: Examining metabolic and molecular factors that influence cognitive function in aging
- Meta-analysis methodology: Developing improved methods for synthesizing research findings in neuroscience
- Research reproducibility: Understanding and addressing sources of bias and irreproducibility in behavioral research
Research Methods
My research employs a combination of approaches:
- Experimental research: Behavioral studies in animal models of aging and neurodegeneration
- Meta-analysis and systematic review: Quantitative synthesis of research findings across studies
- Statistical modeling: Advanced statistical techniques for analyzing complex datasets
- Literature analysis: Comprehensive reviews of research domains to identify gaps and opportunities
Collaborations
I collaborate with researchers across multiple institutions on projects related to:
- Neurotrophic factor research (University at Albany, Columbia University)
- Meta-analytic methodology (various international collaborations)
- Research reproducibility initiatives (multi-institutional projects)
Funding
- Graduate Research Fellowship, University at Albany (2023-2025)
- Conference Travel Grant, Society for Neuroscience (2024)