About CENABH

CENABH at the Forefront of Brain Health and Neurodegeneration Research

The Centre of Excellence in Neurodegeneration and Brain Health (CENABH) stands as a pioneering initiative dedicated to understanding, preserving, and enhancing brain health while addressing the growing global burden of neurodegenerative disorders. Founded under the Kerala State Higher Education Council (KSHEC) with financial support from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), CENABH represents a major step forward in Kerala’s vision to promote advanced, interdisciplinary research in neuroscience.

Journey of CENABH

CENABH emerged from the Centre for Neuroscience at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT). The Centre was conceptualized in response to a state-wide call by KSHEC inviting universities across Kerala to establish Centres of Excellence based on their specialized research domains.

A proposal submitted by the Centre for Neuroscience on behalf of CUSAT underwent rigorous multi- stage evaluation and was selected as one of only four Centres of Excellence approved in the first phase. To facilitate its establishment, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) was constituted under the chairmanship of the Vice Chancellor of CUSAT. CENABH received its administrative sanction on August 23, 2023, marking the beginning of its journey toward becoming a premier hub for neurodegenerative research and brain health innovation.

SINCE

2020

Students

10K+

Why Brain Health and Neurodegeneration Matter?

Brain health forms the foundation of human potential, enabling us to think, feel, learn, move, and connect with others. It governs our memory, cognition, emotional well-being, and quality of life. Protecting brain health is therefore essential not just for individuals but for the vitality and sustainability of entire communities and societies.

However, this foundation is increasingly threatened by neurodegeneration, a gradual, irreversible loss of neuronal structure, function, and communication. This decline underlies debilitating disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other dementias, which disrupt memory, movement, and emotional balance. These conditions exact profound emotional, social, and economic costs on families and healthcare systems worldwide.

While current treatments primarily address symptoms and slow progression, true prevention and restoration remain elusive. This reality underscores the urgency of early detection, preventive research, and holistic approaches to sustain brain health across the lifespan.

CENABH addresses this challenge by uniting neuroscience, molecular biology, data science, and behavioral research to uncover early biomarkers of neuronal decline, develop neuroprotective strategies, and enhance the brain’s resilience. Beyond laboratory research, the Centre also champions community engagement, awareness, and education to promote lifelong brain health.

Together, these efforts are building a future where brain health is actively maintained, neurodegeneration is better understood and prevented, and individuals can lead cognitively vibrant, fulfilling lives.

CENABH: Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives

At its core, CENABH’s mission is to serve as a frontier of knowledge, driving innovative, evidence- based strategies to build healthier brains and, by extension, a healthier society.

Through collaborative, multidisciplinary initiatives, the Centre aims to:

Advance research in Cellular and Molecular Neurodegeneration
Foster innovation in Social Neuroscience and Community Development
Build a resilient, skilled workforce contributing effectively to the knowledge economy
Promote brain health awareness and education for early prevention and intervention

CENABH envisions a society where cutting-edge neuroscience and compassionate community engagement converge, empowering minds and transforming lives through science, innovation, and shared purpose.

Our Vision

Empower the society by espousing a meaningful engagement through translational research and exchange of knowledge between the society and academia to stimulate social action for promoting brain health and well-being.

Our Mission

CENABH's mission is to act as a collective of knowledge and frontier in a larger perspective to build a healthy brain for a healthy society.

Directors Message

The Centre for Neurodegeneration & Brain Health (CENABH) marks a transformative step in our pursuit to understand the brain’s complexities.

As an interdisciplinary research institution, CENABH is dedicated to unraveling the molecular mechanisms behind neurodegenerative conditions and translating discoveries into impactful clinical and social interventions. At CENABH, we bridge fundamental science with real-world application, ensuring that innovations and insights swiftly reach those who need them most. India's rich cultural diversity offers a unique foundation to explore grassroots approaches to mental well- being, from traditional practices to cultural expressions, through a non-Western, culturally sensitive lens.

Despite significant advances, many mechanisms of brain dysfunction remain poorly understood, posing challenges to individual and public health. Our priorities include preventing brain disorders, mitigating risk factors, developing robust support systems, and delivering evidence-based interventions. CENABH stands apart through interdisciplinary collaboration, cultural inclusivity, rapid knowledge translation, cutting-edge technology, and deep community engagement.

By addressing local neurological challenges through systematic, relevant scientific research, CENABH ensures neuroscience advancements benefit the communities we serve. Brain health is a shared responsibility, and by uniting researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and communities, we aim to advance neuroscience and improve lives through scientific rigor, cultural wisdom, and human compassion. Together, let us build a future where understanding the brain leads to healthier individuals, thriving communities, and a resilient ecosystem.

Dr. Baby Chakrapani P S

Director (i/c)

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Join Us in Making a Difference

We invite researchers, practitioners, and community members to engage with us as we explore new dimensions in neuroscience. Together, we can bridge the gap between science and society, ensuring that advancements in brain health translate into tangible benefits for all. Explore our website to learn more about our initiatives, upcoming events, and how you can get involved in promoting brain health for a better tomorrow.

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The Centre of Excellence in Neurodegeneration & Brain Health