Neurodegeneration Symposium
Who: Speakers will include Alexander Drzezga, MD, Paul S Bernstein, MD, PhD, Ryan Watts, PhD, Donna J. Cross, PhD (see below for additional information on the speakers)
When: September 23, 2020, 11 AM - 1:30 PM
Where: Zoom link: https://utah.zoom.us/j/95190088683 | Passcode: 204662
Flyer: Click here for the event flyer
Alexander Drzezga, MD
Dr. Drzezga's research focuses on the application of molecular and multimodal neuroimaging (PET/ CT, MRI, fMRI, PET /MR) in the investigation of neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer's disease) and ageing. In addition, the research of brain networks and their role in brain health and disease is in the focus of his scientific interest, as are resistance mechanisms of the brain such as cognitive reserve. Finally, the development, evaluation and translation of novel tracers/radiopharmaceuticals are an important focus, as are imaging for therapy monitoring in oncology and novel radionuclide therapies.
Ryan Watts, PhD
Dr. Watts is the Chief Executive Officer of Denali Therapeutics. Under Watts' leadership, Denali has advanced multiple therapeutic candidates into clinical testing for Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and ALS. Denali has invented a proprietary blood-brain barrier platform for delivery of therapeutic proteins to the brain. Watts has also led efforts to raise significant capital to advance Denali's therapeutic pipeline and has been instrumental in forging partnerships to accelerate the discovery and development of medicines for neurodegeneration.
Paul S. Bernstein, MD, PhD
Dr. Bernstein's basic and clinical science research interests focus on the biochemistry and biophysics of nutritional interventions against inherited and acquired ocular disorders. His laboratory is a leader in the study of the proteins involved in uptake, stabilization, and metabolism of lutein and zeaxanthin and very-long-chain polyunsaturated acids (VLC-PUFAs) in the human macula. He has led the way to elucidate the genetic underpinnings of macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel) by taking advantage of the large close-knit families of Utah and fluorescence lifetime imaging ophthalmoscopy (FLIO).
Donna J. Cross, PhD
Dr. Cross is an engineer and neuroscientist in the field of Radiology with 20 years of experience using neuroimaging to study neurodegenerative disease and CNS injuries. Her goal is to make a significant impact on therapeutic and diagnostic options for neurological disorders. NIBL research focuses on the innovative use of imaging technology to provide a translational bridge between benchtop and patient, and to advance biological discovery through novel applications of imaging and data analysis.