Mitochondria & cognitive functions

This module explores the intimate connection between cellular energy and brain health. Mitochondria, long considered to be simple energy plants, now appear to be major players in neuronal functioning, cognition and emotions.

The brain is the most energy-consuming organ in the human body: it consumes nearly 20% of our oxygen and is closely dependent on proper mitochondrial function. When this energy machinery is exhausted, the consequences occur at all levels: loss of concentration, memory disorders, psychological exhaustion, anxiety, depression or neurodegenerative pathologies.

Through an integrative approach, this module addresses physiopathological mechanisms of burn-out, depression, neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer, Parkinson) as well as neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and hyperactivity.
It highlights the interactions between low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, microbiota imbalances, intestinal permeability, and alteration of the blood-brain barrier — all factors that, by disrupting mitochondria, directly affect cognitive and emotional functions.

Learners will learn to relate energy imbalances to psychological and behavioral manifestations, and to propose global support strategies : nutritional and micronutritional support, stress regulation, microbiota balance, restoration of neuroplasticity and optimization of neural communication.

This module offers a unified understanding of brain health, no longer as an isolated domain, but as a reflection of a constant dialogue between body and cellular energy.

At the end of this module, the learner will be able to:

Explain the role of mitochondria in the regulation of stress, brain energy, and emotions, and understand the biochemical mechanisms involved in burn-out and cognitive fatigue.

Analyzing the links between mitochondria, neurotransmitters, inflammation and microbiota in the pathophysiology of depressive disorders and emotional imbalances.

Identify neurodegenerative processes associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and the accumulation of pathological proteins (amyloid beta, tau, alpha synuclein).

Understanding energy and environmental alterations involved in neurodevelopment disorders (autism, ADHD), and their relationship with the microbiota, heavy metals and endocrine disruptors.

Implement integrative neuroprotection strategies, combining nutrition, environment, physical activity and emotional regulation to maintain mitochondrial health, memory and cognitive functions.

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Pedagogical modalities

• Online training (asynchronous) and live webinars (synchronous)
• Teaching materials: videos, PDFs, quizzes, replays
• Individual and collective support

Assessment methods

• MCQ for the validation of each module (minimum grade 70%)
• Certificate of success issued at the end of the training

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge in physiology or practice in the field of health, nutrition or well-being.

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Public concerned

• Health professionals, therapists, naturopaths, physiotherapists, osteopaths, health students, physical trainers, coaches, people who want to deepen their understanding of mitochondrial health

Accessibility

• Training accessible remotely on a dedicated platform.
  Possible adaptations according to the needs of the learners (contact person referring to disability).