In this episode of Behind the Labs, we zoom out and connect the dots across some of the most compelling recent research shaping how we think about health, disease, and prevention. We explore how scientists are uncovering the earliest biological triggers of Alzheimer’s disease, from toxic amyloid subtypes and reactive astrocytes to experimental drugs that may stop damage before memory loss begins. We also dive into breakthrough work on mitochondria and healthy aging, where boosting cellular energy production extended both lifespan and healthspan in animal models—improving metabolism, endurance, and reducing markers of cellular aging.

We then turn to the often-overlooked parts of our genome, discussing how researchers are mapping hidden DNA switches in astrocytes that regulate brain genes linked to Alzheimer’s and other neurological disorders, and how AI models are now being trained on this data. Finally, we tackle real-world prevention, breaking down large-scale evidence on alcohol use and cancer risk, and emerging research on cannabis-derived compounds as potential cancer therapies. From molecular mechanisms to public health implications, this episode ties together how early intervention, gene regulation, metabolism, and lifestyle intersect—offering a big-picture view of where modern biomedical research is heading, and what it could mean for the future of medicine. 🧠🧬🔬