Expert Insights on Brain Health and the Significance of Prop 14

In a comprehensive interview with Rice News, Angel Martí, chair of Rice University's Department of Chemistry, elaborates on the critical role of fundamental science in advancing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. As Texas voters prepare to decide on Proposition 14 in November—aimed at establishing the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT)—Martí emphasizes the importance of investing in scientific research to foster breakthroughs.

Rice University's chemistry department is actively contributing to brain health research through various specialized faculties. Physicist Peter Wolynes utilizes computational models to predict protein folding and understand why certain proteins tend to form amyloids linked to neurodegeneration. Professor Han Xiao's team develops probes capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, facilitating imaging and treatment possibilities. Meanwhile, Pernilla Wittung-Stafshede researches how metals like copper influence amyloid behavior, relevant to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Martí’s own lab investigates the molecular mechanisms of amyloid formation, focusing on protein misfolding, oxidation effects, and their implications for toxicity and health. His team employs chemical techniques such as light-induced footprinting to map amyloid interactions, helping to unveil why these structures are so resilient and difficult to eliminate once formed.

Understanding these molecular details is essential because amyloid plaques in the brain tend to absorb metals and other molecules, altering their properties and making them especially stable and toxic. This chemical insight guides drug development efforts aimed at displacing harmful compounds and preventing disease progression.

Advanced probes that can detect amyloid aggregation in real time are transforming diagnostic approaches. They enable researchers to observe disease mechanisms directly, informing the design of targeted therapies. Martí stresses that knowledge of binding sites at the chemical level is vital for creating effective treatments, as many neurodegenerative processes depend on complex protein interactions.

The challenge with amyloid diseases lies in their stability; once these insoluble fibrils form, the brain’s natural clearance systems struggle, and the plaques’ capacity to absorb metals and molecules exacerbates oxidation and immune responses. Chemistry provides tools to understand and potentially counteract these processes.

If Proposition 14 passes, it could significantly accelerate translational research at Rice and across Texas. Increased funding and infrastructure would enable expansion of research programs, recruitment of top talent, and enhanced collaborations with the Texas Medical Center to turn basic scientific discoveries into clinical solutions. Martí views this as a pivotal opportunity to improve the quality of life for aging populations by preventing or delaying dementia.

In closing, Martí highlights how state investment in science has historically propelled breakthroughs in disease treatment, citing cancer research as a successful example. He advocates for similar support for neurodegenerative research, emphasizing that such initiatives are crucial for not only extending lifespan but also maintaining the health and well-being of older adults.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-qa-expert-discusses-role-brain.html