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Dr Adejoke Elizabeth Memudu
Name:
Dr Adejoke Elizabeth Memudu
Job Title:
Lecturer / Researcher / Academic Administrator
Place of work / study:
Edo State University Iyamho, Edo State Nigeria
Area of Research:
My research focuses on investigating the neuroprotective effects of natural products (adaptogens) and their bioactive components (such as Alpha Lipoic acid or Lutein-20) in animal models of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. I aim to explore their potential in mitigating cognitive decline and neuropathological changes
How is your work funded:
Most of the research I carried out is self funded. I have limited access to Institutional Grants based to limited funds available to my institution. So currently I self fund most of my research.
Tell us a little about yourself:
I am an early career neuroscientist based in Nigeria, with a strong research focus on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. My work centres on exploring the therapeutic potential of natural products and their bioactive compounds using animal models of neurodegeneration. With a background in anatomy and neurobiology, I am passionate about understanding how plant-based interventions can protect the brain, improve cognition, and reduce neuropathological changes associated with dementia.
My motivation stems from the growing burden of dementia in ageing populations, particularly in under-resourced settings, where access to conventional treatments is limited and often unaffordable. Driven by both scientific curiosity and a desire to contribute to affordable, accessible therapies, I investigate how locally sourced medicinal plants can modulate the molecular pathways involved in neurodegeneration. My research combines neuroscience and ethnopharmacology to drive innovation in dementia care.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I love to travel and discover new things, people see me as an introvert but Adejoke is a globe-trotting neuroscientist who loves meeting new people and exploring cultures
Why did you choose to work in dementia:
I chose to focus on dementia research because of my interest, commitment to contribute to knowledge and scientific curiosity through addressing one of the most pressing neurological challenges that affects the global aging population. I was inspired to understand how the brain changes with age and due to environmental pollutants that are toxic to the brain which can lead to memory loss, cognitive decline, and loss of identity.
The clinical approved drugs are reported to be slow, expensive and with side effects hence the need to explore affordable, accessible therapeutic options, particularly in low-resource settings. Being raised in Africa bless with rich herbal plants traditionally applied to treat some disease illness, I chose to explore the use of natural products and bioactive compounds in animal models of dementia. I believe that many traditional medicinal plants hold untapped potential for neuroprotection, and her research aims to bridge traditional knowledge with modern neuroscience to find new solutions.
What single piece of of advice would you give to an early career researcher?
I will advice the early career researchers to continually feed their curiosity, stay focus and build genuine connections or network through mentorship that will challenge and support their careers in science
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
Ben Carson’s Gifted Hands and Think Big
Favourite film of all time?
All the Worlds in 80 days and The Accountant
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
Walking in the garden to admire the beauty of Nature, Mediating or listening to soft music
Dr Jodi Watt
Alzheimer's Association
