LRF NGN Center

The Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation Center for Neurodevelopment, Growth and Nutrition of the Newborn (LRF NGN Center) was founded jointly by the University of Zurich and the Family Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation in October 2019.  It is based at the Department of Neonatology at the University Hospital Zurich. The interdisciplinary research group of physicians, cell biologists and psychologists is headed by Prof. Giancarlo Natalucci, MD, an attending neonatologist and developmental paediatrician.

The first 1,000 days of life – the period between conception and the second birthday – is a unique period during which the foundations are laid for optimal health, growth and neurological development throughout the lifespan.

Breastfeeding is one of the most important modifiable maternal health behaviors and has positive effects on infant health and neurocognitive development. Especially for small and vulnerable newborns – such as preterm or low birth weight infants – targeted nutrition and care is of utmost importance. This way, healthy development can be promoted, growth and immune system supported and possible neurological impairments prevented.

The vision of the NGN Center is to understand how nutrition, particularly with breast milk, affects the neurocognitive development of the child. In doing so, it is important to us to consider nutrition as one aspect of the child's (home) learning environment. The long-term goal is to use this knowledge to provide better strategies, treatments and diagnostic tools so that children around the world can reach their full potential.