Lowlands Science: caffeine crusher and menstrual pain Radboudumc presents two research projects at the Lowlands music festival

Do you sleep like a baby right after a double espresso? That might depend on your DNA. This year at Lowlands Science, Radboudumc and Radboud University will test whether you're a true caffeine crusher. In addition, Radboudumc will investigate whether there's a link between menstrual symptoms and the vaginal microbiome. Never experienced a period? Try it out in our menstruation simulator.

This year, Radboudumc will be at Lowlands Science with two research projects, one of which is in collaboration with Radboud University. These are the two projects that will be featured on August 15, 16, and 17 in Biddinghuizen:

Pink Coffee Club (Radboudumc en RU)

Some people lie awake after just three sips of coffee, while others can drink a double espresso before bed with no problem. Why is that? Small differences in your DNA influence how quickly you break down caffeine. In our pop-up lab, you’ll find out whether you break down caffeine like a hare or a tortoise. We’ll combine your DNA profile with various tests, including your reaction time during the traditional Dutch game of stick catching, to explore connections between your caffeine intake, reaction time, alcohol metabolism, and more. You'll get a unique insight into how your genes shape your Lowlands experience!

The research team includes Jan Koenderink, Margit Janssen, Aniek Verstappen, Noor Verhagen, Suzanne Heemskerk, and Michiel Vermeulen.

A MENstrual Experience (Radboudumc)

Menstruation — about half of Lowlands visitors experience it, and it often comes with unpleasant symptoms. We want to investigate whether these symptoms are related to the vaginal microbiome. That’s why we’re collecting vaginal swabs and asking you to fill out a questionnaire about your menstrual symptoms. Paying attention to menstrual pain is important, as there can sometimes be an underlying cause, such as endometriosis. We aim to raise awareness about menstrual symptoms and conditions like endometriosis. Additionally, we want to learn more about the causes of menstrual pain. Never experienced a period? Try it out in the menstruation simulator and share your experience!

The research team includes Emma Huijs, Janneke Hoogstad-van Evert, and Annemiek Nap.

Lowlands Science

Lowlands Science is a popular part of the Lowlands festival, where scientific research is conducted during the event. Each year, Lowlands, BKB, and New Scientist invite researchers to submit proposals. In previous years, Radboudumc has conducted studies on resuscitation using VR headsets, the impact of alcohol on surgical skills, and how attractive people are to mosquitoes.

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