Natasha MacDonald

Experts / Natasha MacDonald

Natasha MacDonald

PhD Candidate, Biochemistry, University of Exeter

I’m a Diabetes UK funded PhD candidate exploring how metabolism and inflammation shape brain health, particularly in the context of diabetes and dementia. My work combines cell biology and neuroscience, using iPSC-derived microglia, endothelial cells, and brain organoids to study how diabetes drugs influence neurovascular and immune interactions. I have hands-on experience with live-cell imaging, metabolic profiling, and cytokine/growth factor analysis. Skilled in experimental design, data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with a strong academic foundation and presentation experience at national scientific meetings.

Ten ways diabetes and dementia are linked

New research shows how blood sugar problems affect brain health and vice versa. Here are ten evidence-based insights into how the two conditions are related.

Ten ways diabetes and dementia are linked

New research shows how blood sugar problems affect brain health and vice versa. Here are ten evidence-based insights into how the two conditions are related.

By A/Prof Craig Beall, Natasha MacDonald