The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine Podcast

Join host Erika Ruiz for an informative discussion with Dr. Craig Heller on this episode of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine podcast. Dr. Heller, a distinguished biologist at Stanford University, leads pioneering research in sleep and circadian rhythms, focusing on their impact on learning and memory in Down syndrome. His innovations in human temperature regulation have transformed understanding and led to advancements in rapid post-anesthesia rewarming techniques and heat exchange technologies.
In this episode, we explore Dr. Heller's extensive research on human temperature regulation, sleep, circadian rhythms, and learning disabilities, particularly in Down syndrome. We highlight the interconnectedness of his work, from innovative heat extraction technologies to the neurobiology of sleep. Dr. Heller also shares his advocacy for post-secondary education for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, ultimately highlighting how we can all contribute to creating equitable opportunities that empower individuals with these disorders.
What We Discuss:
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:41 Current Research Focus
03:50 Intersecting Fields of Study
04:45 Innovative Heat Extraction
08:50 Research on Disabilities
11:48 Career Journey and Motivation
15:04 Accessibility of Medical Advancements
17:50 Rewarding Moments
18:20 Advice for Young Scientists
Resources:
- Down syndrome Research at Stanford

As always thank you for being a listener of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine Podcast. Hosted by Erika Ruiz.

Join host Erika Ruiz for an engaging conversation with Dr. Brian Skotko on this episode of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine podcast. Dr. Skotko is the Emma Campbell Endowed Chair on Down syndrome and serves as Director of the Down syndrome Program at Massachusetts General Hospital. With a personal connection to Down syndrome through his sister Kristen, Dr. Skotko is passionately committed to providing multidisciplinary care to over 700 patients.
In this episode, we explore Dr. Skotko's research into the complexities of Down Syndrome, including the heightened association with Alzheimer's disease. He discusses current research initiatives and the global impact of his work, highlighting the urgent need for equitable healthcare practices. From addressing Alzheimer's challenges in the Down syndrome community to advocating for improved healthcare accessibility worldwide, this conversation offers profound insights into the future of healthcare innovation.
What We Discuss:
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:08 Advancing Research and Support for People with Down syndrome
03:05 Research Focus on Alzheimer's in Down syndrome
04:41 Global Survey on Down syndrome
06:22 The Importance of Mentorship
07:30 Excitement for the Future and Equitable Healthcare
08:12 Democratizing Down syndrome Healthcare Through Virtual Platforms
09:55 Advice for Young Scientists and Doctors
Resources:
- Massachusetts General Hospital - Down syndrome Program
- Down syndrome Life Quality Survey
- Down syndrome Clinic to You Virtual Platform

As always thank you for being a listener of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine Podcast. Hosted by Erika Ruiz.

Join host Erika Ruiz in a compelling conversation with Dr. Mark Mattson on this episode of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine podcast. Dr. Mattson, an esteemed adjunct professor of neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and former NIH lab chief with a PhD in neuroendocrinology, shares insights from his revolutionary research on intermittent fasting and its profound impact on brain health. Delving into neuroendocrinology, developmental neurobiology, and aging-related disorders, Dr. Mattson helps us explore how intermittent fasting can prevent conditions like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and stroke.
In this episode, Dr. Mattson advocates for preventative healthcare and discusses the importance of government funding in advancing equitable research and healthcare access. Discover how intermittent fasting promotes neural resilience and enhances cognitive function, offering natural strategies to support overall well-being.

What We Discuss:
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:17 Motivation to Study Aging and Neurodegenerative Disorders
05:33 Intermittent Fasting and Its Benefits on Longevity and Health
07:12 Clinical Trials and Research on Intermittent Fasting
09:14 Personal Highlight and Rewarding Aspects of Career
10:02 Future of the Field and Ensuring Equity and Accessibility
10:59 Enacting Change for Equity and Affordability in Research and Healthcare
11:20 Advice for Young Scientists and Doctors

As always thank you for being a listener of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine Podcast. Hosted by Erika Ruiz.

Join host Erika Ruiz in an enlightening discussion with Dr. Dennis Selkoe, a distinguished neurology professor at Harvard Medical School and a leading expert in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Leading a team of 300+ scientists at the Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Dr. Selkoe's pioneering research has deepened our understanding of the underlying causes and mechanisms of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
In this episode, we delve into cutting-edge research on neurodegenerative disorders. Dr. Selkoe shares insights from his pioneering work, including the identification of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's disease progression. We also explore the implications of recent FDA-approved treatments and look ahead to future advancements, with a focus on enhancing healthcare accessibility and equity.
What We Discuss:
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:42 Interest in Neurodegenerative Diseases
03:03 Research on Alzheimer's Disease
06:49 Impact of Research on Individuals
07:03 Approval of Alzheimer's Treatment
09:11 Accessibility and Equity of Treatment
12:09 Future Advancements and Accessibility
13:08 Advice for Young Scientists and Doctors

As always thank you for being a listener of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine Podcast. Hosted by Erika Ruiz.

In this episode of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine podcast, host Erika Ruiz speaks with Dr. Diane Chan, a physician-scientist at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), specializing in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Dr. Chan shares her personal journey into neurology, the emotional and practical challenges faced by patients and their families, and her groundbreaking research on non-invasive brain stimulation therapies. She also discusses the importance of building supportive communities for patients, improving access to advanced treatments, and strategies for improving equitable access to care for underserved populations. Join us as Dr. Chan offers a hopeful look at the future of neurodegenerative disease treatment and the critical need for equity in healthcare.
What We Discuss:
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:19 Dr. Chan's Journey into Neurology
03:15 The Challenges of Neurodegenerative Diseases on Patients and Caregivers
06:05 Why Patients Are at the Heart of Dr. Chan's Work
07:50 Pioneering Innovations in Brain Stimulation Research
10:11 The One Thing Every Patient Should Know
11:34 The Future of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation
12:47 Breaking Barriers to Care for Underserved Communities
14:17 Advice for Aspiring Physicians and Researchers

As always thank you for being a listener of The Endless Pursuit - Equitable Science and Medicine Podcast. Hosted by Erika Ruiz.