David Attwell facts for kids
David Attwell, born in 1953, is a British brain scientist, also known as a neuroscientist. He is a professor at University College London, where he teaches about how the body works (physiology). He is also a member of several important science groups, like the Royal Society.
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About David Attwell
Early Life and Education
David Attwell went to Magdalen College, Oxford for his studies. He learned about physics and how the body works (physiology). He then earned his PhD in brain science (neuroscience) from the University of Oxford. After that, he did more research at the University of California, Berkeley in the United States.
Important Research Areas
Professor Attwell has studied many different things about the brain and body. He has looked at how the heart's electrical signals work. He also researched how our eyes see, focusing on the tiny cells that detect light.
A big part of his work involves special brain cells called glial cells. These cells support and protect the brain's main nerve cells. He has also studied how the brain uses energy. This helps us understand how the brain is designed and how it works.
His research also covers serious brain conditions. He has studied stroke, which happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked. He has also looked into Alzheimer's disease, which affects memory and thinking. Another area of his work is how blood flows in the brain, especially in tiny blood vessels called capillaries.
Recent Work
In April 2024, the British Heart Foundation announced something exciting. David Attwell was chosen to lead their new Centre for Vascular Dementia Research. This center focuses on a type of dementia caused by problems with blood flow to the brain. His work there helps us learn more about how to prevent and treat this condition.
Notable Students
Some of David Attwell's students have also become very important scientists. This shows how much he has helped others learn and grow in the field of science.
