This study investigates the cognitive effects of Ārepa, a blackcurrant-based drink, under simulated high-altitude conditions (4,500m normobaric hypoxia for \~180 minutes). Using a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled crossover design, participants will consume either the nootropic blackcurrant-based drink or a taste-matched placebo. Cognitive testing (\~80 minutes) includes Trail-making, Stroop, N-back, Serial 7s/3s, and RVIP tasks. Physiological measures (heart rate, SpO₂, blood) and biomarkers (MAO-B, BDNF, hsCRP, S100B, Prolactin, C3G, Sarmentosin) will be assessed. Scales will evaluate mood, wellbeing, and perceived effects. The aim is to determine if the nootropic drink can support cognitive function in hypoxic environments.
Age range
18 Years – 35 Years
Sex
MALE
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A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Executive Function (Trail Making Task)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), approximately 1 hour (±10 minutes) after exposure, and 2 hours (±10 minutes) after exposure.
Working Memory (N-back)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), approximately 1 hour (±10 minutes) after exposure, and 2 hours (±10 minutes) after exposure.
Attention (RVIP) as part of the Cognitive Demand Battery
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), and 6 repeated assessments during the cognitive demand battery conducted between 1 hr 20 min and 2 hr 20 min after onset of acute high-altitude exposure.
Executive Function (Stroop, colour word task)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), approximately 1 hour (±10 minutes) after exposure, and 2 hours (±10 minutes) after exposure.
Working Memory (Serial 7s)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), and 6 repeated assessments during the cognitive demand battery conducted between 1 hr 20 min and 2 hr 20 min after onset of acute high-altitude exposure.
Working Memory (Serial 3s)
Timeframe: Baseline (sea level, pre-supplementation), and 6 repeated assessments during the cognitive demand battery conducted between 1 hr 20 min and 2 hr 20 min after onset of acute high-altitude exposure.