Lea Grinberg, MD, PhD, University of California, San Francisco, CA, discusses the implications of the gene expression data in vulnerable neurons to Alzheimer’s disease. Dr Grinberg states that it is essential to ask if gene expression is solely responsible for neuron vulnerability or if it results from another variable. One approach used to understand this is the utilization of CRISPR; through experimental models, it is possible to increase or decrease the expression of target genes – thus allowing for testing for response. If successful, it can be certain that there will be a development in drugs targeting gene expression. Dr Grinberg also discusses the importance of understanding other classes of neurons that are considered vulnerable – emphasizing the need for both experimental models and neuropathological characterization in humans. This interview was conducted during the 2022 World Congress on Controversies in Neurology (CONy) meeting.
