Into the Brain: A Glimpse Inside Alzheimer's Research with Dr. Holly Hunsberger

As part of our ongoing effort to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease, we had the privilege of speaking with leading researcher Holly Hunsberger from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, whose work focuses on the intersection of neurodegenerative diseases, gender, and mental health. She emphasized that "women are more susceptible," citing the hormonal shifts during menopause as a critical risk window. "Anxiety may predict Alzheimer's," she shared, pointing to studies showing how affective disorders and social isolation can significantly cause disease progression, particularly in women.

She also highlighted a major flaw in preclinical research: "Most research we've found revolves around solely testing male mice, not female mice, which has limited our understanding of how the disease manifests differently across sexes". Her lab aims to push back against this norm, aiming to explore these overlooked dimensions.

On the research side, she explained powerful tools being used to study Alzheimer's in mice, such as turning on tagged cells during an experience to capture a "snapshot of neurons" and using viral vectors to see what's turned on in the brain during memory formation. While these methods are cutting-edge, she reminded us of their limitations, noting, "You can't transfer everything to humans", emphasizing the reason for mice testing. 

Beyond science, she spoke on the importance of advocacy and getting involved, as most of our work revolves around helping the community and spreading awareness of an important cause. "Participating in Alzheimer's chapters-- there are so many ways to make a difference," (Hunsberger). Whether it's through walks, women's organizations, fundraising, or public talks, Dr. Holly Hunsberger emphasizes the importance of advocating for what we are passionate about: making a difference. Her words reaffirmed the importance of inclusive research, early intervention, and the power of community action in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.