Of Mice and Men… and Toxins: The Environmental Link to Dementia

In this episode of the Dementia Researcher Podcast, guest host Dr Sam Moxon is joined by Dr Adam Schuller, Dr Savannah Rocha-Wrigley, and Megan Hager from Colorado State University's Tjalkens Lab to explore the significant yet often overlooked impact of environmental toxins on dementia and neurodegenerative diseases.This fascinating discussion sheds light on how substances such as pesticides, heavy metals, wildfire smoke, and air pollution can trigger changes in glial cells, such as astrocytes and microglia, which may lead to dementia. The experts share insights into groundbreaking experimental models, imaging technologies, and the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies to reduce toxin-related risks.Key Topics:Defining environmental toxins and their relevance to dementiaRole of astrocytes and microglia in neurodegenerationTranslational neurotoxicology modelsAdvanced AI imaging and analysis techniquesPreventative strategies to mitigate environmental risks--A transcript of this show, links and show notes and profile on all our guests are available on our website at https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk.If you prefer to watch rather than listen, you will find a video version of this podcast on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and on our website.Leave us a tip:https://dementia-researcher.captivate.fm/supportFollow us on social media:https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/ https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/https://www.twitter.com/demrescommunityhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.socialDownload and Register with our Community App:https://www.onelink.to/dementiaresearcherWe gratefully acknowledge the support of our funders: Alzheimer’s Association, Race Against Dementia, Alzheimer’s Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society, and the National Institute for Health and Care Research.The views and opinions expressed by guests in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the producers, funders, or sponsors.Subscribe to our sister show 'Dementia Researcher The Blogs':https://podfollow.com/dementia-researcher-blogs