Glycans and Neurodegenerative Diseases: A New Perspective on Alzheimer's with Prof. Ronald Schnaar

The longer lifespans we enjoy come shadowed by age-related diseases, notably Alzheimer's. This episode shines a light on the often-overlooked glycans, complex carbohydrates that play a pivotal role in healthy brain function. Our understanding of Alzheimer's causation has evolved, moving beyond just 'trash accumulation' to include problems with 'trash clearance.' Discover the potential of glycans in healing spinal cord injuries, the hurdles in identifying early biomarkers and delivering drugs to the brain. We delve into the essential role of gangliosides, a unique class of glycolipids, and separate science from media hype around Alzheimer's prevention. Ronald Schnaar is the Professor and Interim Director of the Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences and a Professor of Neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Listen in as he unpacks his extensive research in neuro glycobiology and the practical hurdles in the path of Alzheimer's research and prevention.

We Discuss:

• Why Study Glycobiology? What Drew Ronald to Glycobiology [02:41]
• Understanding the Crucial Role of Glycans in Cell-to-Cell Interaction [05:18]
• Study on Gangliosides in Context of Nerve Cell Insulation [06:29]
• Congenital Disorders of Ganglioside Biosynthesis: Symptoms and Treatment Options [12:03]
• The Potential Role of Glycans in Repairing Spinal Cord Injuries [18:17]
• The Evolution in Our Understanding of Alzheimer's Disease [20:45]
• Challenges of Studying Alzheimer’s Disease [27:23]
• International Research Collaboration for Study of Alzheimer’s Disease [31:09]
• Dual Causes of Alzheimer's: A New Perspective [32:37]
• Are Mice Good Models for Neurodegenerative Diseases? [34:42]
• The Challenge of Translating Research into Clinical Application [38:40]
• Challenges of Drug Delivery to the Brain [40:45]
• The Future of Glycan Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease [42:23]
• Alzheimer’s Prevention: Sifting Fact from Fiction in Media Coverage [45:58]
• Ronald’s Future Research Plans and Focus [51:27]
• Ronald’s Final Message to Our Listeners [54:44]

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Please be advised that this show is for information only and should not be considered as a replacement or equal to medical advice.