We participate once again in the OpenPRBB

Every October, the Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB) opens its doors for the OpenPRBB, with the aim of bringing the research conducted by the centers housed in this infrastructure closer to the public. This year’s event, now in its 18th edition, is a key moment when visitors can engage directly with cutting-edge science through free activities such as workshops, talks, and guided tours of the laboratories.

For the second year in a row, the Pasqual Maragall Foundation and the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC) took part in this flagship event with a workshop and a scientific micro-talk, showcasing the science carried out at the center in a venue that brings together many leading biomedical research institutes.

Throughout the day, the Foundation and BBRC team led the workshop “Neurons and memory: Let’s play and learn.” Attendees discovered that neurons are the cells that enable us to think, remember, and feel, and they had the chance to paint them and add them to a large mural, building together a brain full of colors and connections. In addition, with the memory game “Numbers to forget,” participants learned surprising facts about Alzheimer’s disease through a playful activity.

Lifestyle’s key role in preventing dementia

Dr. Natàlia Soldevila Domènech, a postdoctoral researcher with the Clinical Research and Risk Factors for Neurodegenerative Diseases Group at the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC) and the Hospital del Mar Research Institute, delivered the scientific micro-talk “Brain in Shape: The Impact of Lifestyle on Dementia Prevention.”

During her talk, Dr. Soldevila emphasized that recent research shows at least 45% of all dementia cases are linked to lifestyle and environmental factors that we can modify. She highlighted that engaging in regular physical activity, following a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, managing cardiovascular risk factors, and promoting cognitive and social stimulation are key to reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

She concluded by noting that, because the biological changes that lead to dementia can begin 15 to 20 years before the first symptoms appear, it is never too early to start implementing these healthy habits.

Nearly 1,000 people attended the various activities at OpenPRBB 2025, delivered by 225 volunteers working at the eight research centers that make up the Park, consolidating the event as an essential bridge between science and society.