It was also able to spot brain lesions and predict whether patients would need neurosurgery.

However, those asked to stick to twice-weekly weights sessions not only showed significantly less shrinkage of brain matter, but their brain lesions had not multiplied at nearly the same rate.

Experts have found that the condition raises the risk of brain lesions, and that the association was even stronger in those who experienced warning signs, or auras, beforehand.

Focal brain lesions may be associated with specific neurological symptoms.

As well as cognitive methods, her research has involved functional imaging studies, exploration of acquired brain lesions, and behaviour genetic methods.