Exploring Vascular Dysfunction in Alzheimer's with Dr. Silvia Fossati

Research Renaissance: Exploring the Future of Brain Science

Welcome to Research Renaissance, presented by the Karen Toffler Charitable Trust. In this episode, host Deborah Westphal is joined by Dr. Silvia Fossati, Associate Professor of Neurosciences and Associate Director at the Alzheimer's Center at Temple University.

Dr. Fossati, a 2021 Toffler Scholar, shares her insights on vascular dysfunction in the brain and its critical role in Alzheimer's disease and related conditions.

Key Topics Covered:

Academic Journey:

Dr. Fossati's path from Tuscany to the forefront of Alzheimer's research in the United States, detailing her academic pursuits from Italy to NYU and finally to Temple University.

Research Focus:

The discussion delves into the significance of vascular dysfunction in Alzheimer's, emphasizing the amyloid deposits around brain vessels and their impact on brain health.

Innovative Studies:

Exploration of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) and its consequences on the brain's vascular system, including challenges with the blood-brain barrier and potential therapies.

Blood-Brain Barrier Research:

Current insights into the blood-brain barrier's role in Alzheimer's, the effects of new anti-amyloid therapies, and the importance of comprehensive vascular studies.

Laboratory Priorities:

Dr. Fossati highlights her lab's priorities, such as understanding mitochondrial dysfunction and exploring carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, which could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's.

Interdisciplinary Approaches:

The necessity for collaborative research across various disciplines to enhance understanding and treatment of complex diseases like Alzheimer's.

Dr. Fossati passionately explains the intricate relationship between the brain and vascular health, advocating for more focused research on how vascular issues contribute to Alzheimer's and other cognitive disorders. She also discusses the potential of existing drugs, like those for high altitude sickness, to treat cerebral conditions due to their effects on brain swelling and vascular integrity.

For more insights and updates, subscribe to Research Renaissance on your favorite podcast platform and visit tofflertrust.org. Reach out to Dr. Silvia Fossati for collaborations or inquiries through her lab's website or directly via email at [e-mail].

To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.