Dr. Marc W. Haut, professor at the University of West Virginia and Director of the Memory Health Clinic, was the keynote speaker for the Neuroscience Seminar in October.
“Give me a show of hands,” Haut encouraged as he began his lecture. “[Is there] anybody here who has had a family member affected by Alzheimer's or another form of dementia?” The majority of the hands in the room went up. “Yeah, that’s a lot of people. It's terrible, isn't it? We’ve got to do something about it.”
Haut’s rich and diverse 35-year long career as a scientist and researcher allowed him to discuss in depth his experiences in combating dementia by utilizing biomarkers like amyloid and tau in Alzheimer's diagnosis. He also commented on his efforts to improve patient outcomes through the use of monoclonal antibodies to clear amyloid plaque (deposits of protein that form in the spaces between nerve cells) from the brain.
In order to gain access to the region of the brain suffering from amyloid plaque build-up, Haut used a neuroimaging technique referred to as a focused ultrasound. Many of the drugs that treat Alzheimer's disease are too big to easily pass through the blood-brain barrier, but with the use of MRI scans to pinpoint the desired brain location, researchers are able to utilize focused ultrasound like a key in a lock. This technique temporarily opens the blood brain barrier, allowing for the administration of life-saving medication.
For the neuroscience students in the audience, Haut’s remarks provided insight into the scientific world they one day hope to inhabit. A world where questions such as, “do structural differences underline differences in activation?” lead to groundbreaking research with solvent-damaged railroad workers.
As students strive to combine classroom learning with experiential education, interactions with professionals such as Haut act as invaluable stepping stones, allowing them to more fully understand how they might apply what they’re learning in a professional environment. “Learning about the brain and just how God's creations work is always a faith builder,” commented Anna Black MA ’26 (NUERO). “This seminar has inspired me to learn more about neuroimaging.” Her experience highlights how exposure to expert insights not only deepens students' understanding but also fuels their passion for further exploration in the field.
Haut ended his remarks by reminding his audience that “good work knows no limits.” He encouraged them to integrate neuroimaging skills both in practice and in the lab. He also expressed immense thanks to all those who believed in him and gave him the opportunity to do good. This sentiment touched many in the audience, especially Black, who felt reaffirmed in her belief that “science is so collaborative.”