The Scientific Basis of the NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery

The NIH Toolbox for the Assessment of Neurological and Behavioral Function (NIH Toolbox) is a publicly available set of tests covering cognitive, sensory, motor, and emotional functions in human study participants. The tests are specifically designed for use in large cohort studies and clinical trials, for the assessment of the entire spectrum of functioning from normal through early disease. Unique to the NIH Toolbox, the resource is free of charge to the research community (barring purchase for use on multiple devices). The 2023 IAFNS Summer Research Opportunity Fellow was charged with conducting an extensive review of the selection, validation, and implementation of cognitive performance tests available in the NIH Toolbox specific to memory and attention – two cognitive domains for which evidence suggests a potential influence of nutrition. The full report is now available and posted below.

Institution: Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine

Principal Investigator: Stella Wang, MS MPH

This work was supported in part by the IAFNS’ Cognitive Health Committee.

View the final report here.