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Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation Center for Neurodevelopment, Growth and Nutrition of the Newborn (LRF NGN Center)
The Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation Center for Neonatal Neurodevelopment, Growth and Nutrition (LRF NGN Center) was jointly founded in October 2019 by the University of Zurich and the Family Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation. It is based at the Department of Neonatology at the University Hospital Zurich. The interdisciplinary research group of physicians, cell biologists and psychologists is led by Prof. Dr. med. Giancarlo Natalucci, a neonatologist and developmental pediatrician.
Current projects
At the NGN Center, we are investigating the influence of early childhood nutrition on the neurological development of children. We are particularly interested in the influence of breast milk components on child development and interactions with parental parenting behavior and the home learning environment.
In addition to a clinical research program, we conduct basic research on the characterization and biochemical behavior of nutrients and bioactive compounds in breast milk. We are particularly interested in the extent to which these nutrients and compounds can protect neuronal cells and stabilize physiological functions.
Our goal is to establish an interdisciplinary center of excellence for neurodevelopment, growth and nutrition in neonatology that studies the development of children and the specific needs of their families.
A large group of motivated employees, together with local and international cooperation networks, are involved in the successful implementation of our various projects. We would like to thank all pregnant women, mothers, fathers, children and families who take part in our projects and thus make an essential contribution to our research.
