KAYLIE ZAPANTA MS CSCS

I'm a doctoral candidate at the University of Southern California, studying under the mentorship of Dr. Beth E. Fisher in the Neuroplasticity and Imaging Laboratory. 

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My research investigates the role of the Gut-Brain Axis in Parkinson's disease (PD), and potential therapeutic strategies to improve gut health and vagal nerve activity. As a clinical exercise physiologist, my goal is to determine the role exercise can play on the Gut-Brain Axis in neurodegenerative diseases, like PD.

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Outside of the research lab, I teach physiology, nutrition, and exercise science- both in the classroom and virtually. I host a podcast and educational YouTube channel, and share the knowledge I have acquired in health sciences via social media.

 

My overall aim in becoming a research scientist is to disseminate complicated physiologic mechanisms that impact clinical conditions to the general public in a tangible, engaging way!

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When I'm not working on research or teaching, I spend my days finding delicious food in the LA area with my husband, running, weightlifting, and spending time at the beach!