The science of longer, healthier lives: Eric Topol, MD
May 21, 2025
How close are we to a future where aging is no longer a barrier to vitality? Scripps Research executive vice president and professor Eric Topol will discuss the themes of his new book on longevity. Drawing on the latest breakthroughs, he’ll explore how innovations in artificial intelligence and drug discovery are combating chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes and neurodegeneration. Topol will reveal how these advances are not only extending lifespans but also improving health at every stage of life.
Regenerative medicine for the treatment of MS: Enhancing repair to prevent progression: Luke Lairson, PhD
April 16, 2025
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating autoimmune disease that disrupts the central nervous system, causing symptoms like muscle weakness, cognitive challenges and a gradual loss of function that current treatments cannot fully repair. MS arises when the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, the protective layer insulating neurons. Scripps Research chemistry professor Luke Lairson will discuss his research on the body’s natural repair pathways—specifically those that activate endogenous stem cells to restore myelin. His work aims to develop therapies that complement existing therapeutic approaches and halt MS progression.
Decoding viruses for vaccine innovation: Andrew Ward, PhD
March 19, 2025
Viruses use specialized proteins to infect human cells, and understanding their structure is key to creating more effective vaccines and antiviral therapies. Scripps Research professor Andrew Ward will delve into his pioneering work on mapping these proteins with cutting-edge imaging techniques. Ward’s research provides critical insights into viral neutralization mechanisms, paving the way for advancements in vaccine development against pathogens like HIV, influenza, coronaviruses and much more.
The gut-brain axis: A key to metabolism and longevity: Supriya Srinivasan, PhD
February 26, 2025
How do our gut and brain communicate with one another, and how do they influence our metabolism, our behavior, and the aging process? Scripps Research neuroscience professor Supriya Srinivasan is dedicated to answering these pressing questions using modern genetic and molecular tools across different experimental systems. Srinivasan will reveal the intricacies of the gut-brain networks that regulate energy regulation and fat metabolism, as well as their impact on lifespan. Discover how her work could lead to new therapies that restore a healthy metabolism and tackle dysregulation.