In this insightful episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal engages in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Zhe Zhang, a research associate at Johns Hopkins and a 2021 Toffler Scholar. Dr. Zhang discusses her journey from aspiring to be a doctor to becoming a dedicated researcher focused on neurodegenerative diseases, particularly ALS. She shares her innovative work on establishing a platform to find genetic modifiers that can improve cell survival and slow the progression of ALS.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Introduction to Dr. Zhe Zhang:
   • Background and inspiration for pursuing research in neurodegenerative diseases.
   • Transition from clinical practice to basic research.
2. Journey to ALS Research:
   • Initial interest sparked by experiences with neurodegenerative patients during medical training.
   • Shift in focus during her time in Australia, influenced by collaborations and the Ice Bucket Challenge.
3. Focus on Genetic Modifiers and ALS:
   • Explanation of familial and sporadic ALS, with a focus on the C9ORF72 gene mutation.
   • Development of toxic proteins from gene mutations and their impact on cell survival.
4. Research Techniques and Platforms:
   • Use of CRISPR technology for genetic screening and identifying potential therapeutic targets.
   • Application of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to develop models for screening.
5. Collaborative Efforts:
   • Importance of interdisciplinary collaborations with other researchers and biobanks.
   • Contributions from patient-donated post-mortem tissues to validate research findings.
6. Challenges and Future Directions:
   • The complexity of translating basic research to clinical applications and commercial products.
   • The role of CRISPR in gene editing and its potential for therapeutic interventions.
7. Emerging Technologies and Tools:
   • The impact of iPSCs, CRISPR, and advanced imaging techniques on ALS research.
   • Potential of functional MRI and other non-invasive methods for tracking disease progression.
8. Global Collaboration and Impact:
   • The necessity of global studies and collaborations to understand neurodegenerative diseases.
   • Hopes for future research, including the development of effective therapies for ALS.
9. Personal Reflections and Advice:
   • Dr. Zhang’s commitment to staying curious, passionate, and cautious in her research.
   • Encouragement for young researchers to persevere despite challenges and to collaborate widely.

Join us in advancing our understanding of the brain and addressing its ailments. Until then, onward and upward!

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.