The Earliest Clues: How Genetic Populations Illuminate the Path to Alzheimer’s Prevention

Whether he’s leading a clinical trial or advising film and television writers on accurate portrayals of Alzheimer’s, Dr. Michael Rafii knows that clear, accessible communication matters. In this episode, Dr. Rafii joins the podcast to discuss his work as Medical Director of ATRI and Director of the Medical Safety Unit of ACTC. He shares a fascinating overview of his clinical research around developing new treatments for a genetic form of Alzheimer’s in people with Down syndrome and explains how Alzheimer’s research has evolved throughout his career. Dr. Rafii also discusses his approach to communicating complex medical topics in a way that’s clear and easy to understand.Episode Recap:In this episode, we’re talking with ATRI Medical Director Dr. Michael Rafii (0:41)Can you tell us about your role at ATRI and the work you’re doing with Alzheimer’s clinical trials? (1:40) How did you get involved with Alzheimer’s research, and how has it evolved? (4:29)Can you tell us about your work at the intersection of Alzheimer’s and Down syndrome? (11:15)How do genetics connect to Alzheimer’s risk? (20:13)What are some of the barriers to research for people with Down syndrome? (22:52)How are you working to educate the next generation of researchers? (28:00)What are your hopes for the future of Alzheimer’s research? (34:25)Can you tell us more about what the current clinical studies are testing? (36:33)Why is clear, easy-to-understand communication so important in this space? (39:20)Learn more about ATRI