Neuroprotective Greek Herbs: Bridging Neuroscience and Cultural Heritage
March 7 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
free
Neuroprotective Greek Herbs: Bridging Neuroscience and Cultural Heritage
a seminar organized by
Anastasia Tsingotjidou (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki)
March 7, 2026
9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
314 Royce Hall, UCLA
This seminar brings together researchers from neuroscience, pharmacology, biology, veterinary medicine, nutrition, and plant biodiversity to explore the neuroprotective potential of traditional Greek herbs. Through a combination of in-person and online presentations, the program highlights translational research, from animal models and isolated bioactive compounds to nutritional approaches and cultural heritage. The seminar concludes with a culinary demonstration using Cycladic herbs, emphasizing the connection between Greek history, daily life, and brain health.
Speakers:
- Dr. Korina Atsopardi, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras
- Dimitra Efthymiopoulou, Department of Nutrition & Dietetics and Department of Sports Nutrition, Harokopio University (Zoom)
- Irene Giannakopoulos, CEO, Aegialis Hotel and Spa, author of the culinary book, My Amorgos!
- Professor Marigoula Margariti, Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Patras (Zoom)
- Marita Papagianni, Plant Taxonomist & Biodiversity Research Associate, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Zoom)
- Professor Igor Spigelman, Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Section of Biosystems and Function, School of Dentistry, UCLA
- Professor Anastasia Tsingotjidou, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
- Associate Professor Konstantinos Xanthopoulos, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (Zoom)
This seminar is hosted by the UCLA SNF Center for the Study of Hellenic Culture, with generous support from Lee and Lilian Polydor, The Polydor Foundation, and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation.
