Let's Talk Alzheimer's

A new generation of Alzheimer’s therapies is tackling one of medicine’s toughest challenges: delivering drugs to the brain. Renowned Alzheimer’s researcher Dr. Gil Rabinovici explores trontinemab, an investigational anti-amyloid therapy being studied for early Alzheimer’s disease that uses innovative Brainshuttle™ technology to enhance drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier. He also shares insights from the TRONTIER 1 and 2 clinical trials, the TRAVELLER pre-screening study, and the ambitious PrevenTRON prevention study, which is exploring whether early treatment may help stop or prevent symptoms altogether in people at high risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

For a deeper dive into trontinemab, watch our full conversation with Dr. Rabinovici, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/trontinemab-a-new-brain-penetrant-alzheimers-therapy/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

What if a noninvasive technology using sound waves could help unlock new possibilities for Alzheimer’s research and care? Dr. Ali R. Rezai, a leader in neuroscience and neuromodulation, explains how focused ultrasound is being used to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier, enhance delivery of anti-amyloid antibodies, enable brain biopsies for biomarker research, and improve brain function through neuromodulation.

For a deeper dive into this exciting technology, watch our full conversation with Dr. Rezai, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/how-focused-ultrasound-is-changing-alzheimers-treatment/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Up to 45% of dementia cases may be preventable or delayed by addressing modifiable risk factors, recent research shows. Join Dr. Zaldy Tan as he discusses the latest evidence on reducing dementia risk, including insights from an ongoing longitudinal study examining how lifestyle interventions affect brain structure, blood-based biomarkers, and cognitive performance. Learn what the newest research reveals about protecting brain health and promoting healthy aging.

For a deeper dive into evidence-based ways to reduce dementia risk, watch our full conversation with Dr. Zaldy, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/reducing-dementia-risk-what-new-research-reveals/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Can brain tissue be regenerated? We spoke with Roberta Diaz Brinton, PhD, director of the Center for Innovation in Brain Science at the University of Arizona, about the ReGenBRAIN clinical trial. This Phase 2 study is testing whether the drug allopregnanolone (“Allo”) can help repair brain damage and improve thinking in people with mild Alzheimer’s who carry the APOE ε4 genetic risk factor. Dr. Brinton explains how the trial works, who can enroll, and why this approach holds promise.

For a deeper dive into vascular dementia, watch our full conversation with Dr. Brinton, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/can-brain-tissue-be-regenerated-inside-the-regenbrain-trial/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Lewy body dementia is a form of dementia caused by abnormal protein deposits in the brain known as "Lewy bodies,” with symptoms that can resemble those of Parkinson's disease. Leading neurologist Dr. James E. Galvin explains how to identify early warning signs, distinguish Lewy body dementia from Alzheimer’s disease, and explore current and emerging treatment options. He’ll also discuss mixed dementias, when a person has more than one type of dementia.

For a deeper dive into vascular dementia, watch our full conversation with Dr. Galvin, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/lewy-body-alzheimers-mixed-dementias-explained/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Agitation is one of the most common and challenging symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, often causing distress for both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Dr. Brent Forester explains what causes agitation, how it may appear in different forms, and the latest approaches for managing symptoms—including non-drug strategies and newly approved treatments.

For a deeper dive into vascular dementia, watch our full conversation with Dr. Forester, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/agitation-in-alzheimers-dementia/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Vascular dementia is the second-most common form of dementia and often develops after a stroke. In this episode, Dr. Jason Hinman of UCLA explains how disrupted blood flow to the brain can lead to cognitive decline, how vascular dementia differs from (and often overlaps with) Alzheimer’s disease, and what the latest research means for prevention and treatment.

For a deeper dive into vascular dementia, watch our full conversation with Dr. Hinman, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/stroke-vascular-dementia-alzheimers-whats-the-difference/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Could the trillions of bacteria in your gut affect your brain health and risk for Alzheimer’s disease? Emerging research suggests the gut microbiome may play an important role in inflammation and brain function. In this episode, Dr. Beau Ances of Washington University in St. Louis explains the growing science behind the gut-brain connection, how gut health may influence dementia risk, and practical steps that may help support a healthier gut and mind.

For a deeper dive into the gut-brain connection, watch our full conversation with Dr. Ances, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/the-gut-microbiome-and-alzheimers-disease-understanding-the-connection/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Could bacteria linked to gum disease play a role in Alzheimer’s disease? Emerging science suggests that P. gingivalis, a bacterium associated with gum disease, may contribute to inflammation and brain damage linked to Alzheimer’s disease. In this episode, Dr. Michael J. Detke of Lighthouse Pharma discusses the SPRING clinical trial and the investigational oral drug LHP588, which is being studied as a potential way to reduce bacteria-related brain damage. He also shares who may qualify for the study and what participation may involve for individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.

To learn more, watch our full conversation with Dr. Detke, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series. https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/the-spring-trial-targeting-gum-bacteria-in-alzheimers/

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Exciting advances in understanding Alzheimer’s biology, genetics, and biomarkers are driving new medicines, devices, and prevention strategies. In 2025 alone, 182 clinical trials evaluated 138 novel drugs for Alzheimer’s disease. In this episode, leading expert Dr. Jeffrey Cummings from the University of Nevada Las Vegas shares an insider’s look at the rapidly evolving Alzheimer’s treatment pipeline and what today’s clinical trials mean for the future. We also extend our gratitude to the clinical trial participants and families whose involvement makes this critical research possible

Can everyday lifestyle choices really protect your memory? Dr. Laura Baker, professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, shares insights from the groundbreaking U.S. POINTER trial—the largest study of its kind exploring how lifestyle changes impact brain health. She breaks down how factors like exercise, nutrition, cognitive engagement, and social connection work together, and what practical steps you can take to reduce your risk of dementia.

For a deeper dive into lifestyle and Alzheimer’s risk, watch ourhttps://www.brightfocus.org/resource/u-s-pointer-study-update-lifestyle-program-significantly-improves-cognition-in-older-adults/full conversation with Dr. Baker, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series.

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit http://brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Detecting subtle changes in memory or thinking can be unsettling, but understanding what’s behind those changes can lead to critical early diagnosis—or even rule out Alzheimer’s altogether. In this episode, behavioral neurologist Dr. Sharon Cohen, medical director at Toronto Memory Program, explains the early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, medical conditions that can mimic dementia, and how to start a conversation with your doctor.

To go deeper, watch ourhttps://www.brightfocus.org/resource/is-it-alzheimers-recognizing-early-signs-symptoms/full conversation with Dr. Cohen, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series.

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit http://brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Just three years ago, there were no FDA-approved treatments that targeted the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s—only medications that modified symptoms. Today, two FDA-approved therapies—Leqembi (lecanemab) and Kisunla (donanemab)—clear amyloid protein from the brain, targeting a potential cause of the disease. Dr. Armen J. Moughamian, a neurologist and medical director of the Ray Dolby Brain Health Center at Sutter Health, joins this episode to answer common questions about what these new therapies can realistically do, including effectiveness, safety, eligibility, infusion logistics, cost, and access.

To learn more, watch ourhttps://www.brightfocus.org/resource/leqembi-and-kisunla-your-questions-answered/full conversation with Dr. Moughamian, part of the Zoom In on Dementia and Alzheimer’s series.

Support for Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is provided by sponsors Lilly, Biogen, Eisai, and Genentech.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is presented by Alzheimer’s Disease Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program. We fund exceptional research across the globe to support the development of cutting-edge treatments, risk reduction strategies, and ultimately a cure for this mind-stealing disease. Visit http://brightfocus.org to learn more and get involved.

Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s is a new podcast from BrightFocus Foundation’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research program that helps listeners understand Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias through trusted scientific insight. Episodes feature conversations with leading scientists and medical experts about diagnosis, risk reduction, clinical trials, and the latest treatments. The podcast features content adapted from BrightFocus’ Zoom In on Dementia & Alzheimer’s series.