Episode 31 – Sandra Encalada: Linking traffic jams in the brain to neurodegenerative disease

Professor Sandra Encalada is based in the Department of Molecular Medicine at Scripps Research, where her lab investigates the transport of cargo within brain cells and its role in health and disease. Listen as we talk about new therapeutic agents to stop and reverse neurodegeneration, environmental neurotoxins and when to listen to your gut feeling.

Episode 32 – Ryan Shenvi: Ethnomedicine to improve learning, memory and mental health

Professor Ryan Shenvi is based in the Department of Chemistry at Scripps Research, where his lab reconstructs useful molecules typically found in remote corners of the world. Listen as we talk about traditional remedies of indigenous cultures, formulating medicines from industrial waste and Charles Dickens’ drinking habits.

Episode 33 – Frederick Barrett: Psychoactive compounds to treat depression, addiction & inflammation

Professor Frederick Barrett is based in the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Associate Director at the Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research. Fred and his colleagues investigate the therapeutic effects of psychoactive substances in intractable patient populations, including those with depression, opioid use disorder and cognitive impairments. Listen as we talk about the different types of hallucinogenic mushrooms, whether psychedelics could one day treat neurodegeneration and the remedial value of a bad "trip."
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