Dr Jian Guan is a medical doctor and researcher who trained in pediatrics in China before moving to New Zealand, where she has spent over 30 years at the University of Auckland investigating insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF 1), cyclic glycine proline (cGP) and their roles in neuronal repair and vascular remodeling. Her discovery of the role of cGP in regulating IGF-1 bioavailability, led to clinical evaluation of a novel biomarker of IGF 1 function and the clinical application of natural cGP for small vessel diseases such as cognitive impairment, peripheral neuropathy and metabolic disorders. Since identifying naturally occurring cGP in food, she has been instrumental in developing an oral cGP ingredient and related supplements to support brain, cognitive and metabolic health.