The Curious Case of the Hippocampus: From Safeguarding the Brain to Safeguarding the Ocean

In this joint talk, learn about the fascinating worlds of Alzheimer's disease research and marine conservation. Alzheimer’s disease diagnoses are growing exponentially. As the seventh most prevalent disease worldwide, diagnoses are estimated to reach 139 million by 2050. Biological changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease arise decades before cognitive symptoms develop. The first half of this talk will discuss the research underpinning methods that could be used to identify these biological changes earlier in life, helping to delay, and possibly prevent, the disease.

The second half of the talk will take a deep dive into marine conservation, with a focus on seahorses. Discover how we can use these fishes to spearhead support for marine conservation issues, from habitat loss to illegal trade. Focusing on the Yucatan Peninsula, the research discussed uses stakeholder interviews and underwater field studies to gather data on understudied seahorse populations and the threats they face. Learn how these efforts support seahorses and their wider marine ecosystems through the fight to establish marine protected areas, limit overfishing, and regulate species trade.

Ruth is a current MSc student at the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, UBC. At Project Seahorse she will be focusing on seahorse biology and ecology, with a particular focus on community-based conservation strategies for preserving marine ecosystems. Ruth was born in Finland and grew up in the UK. She loves scuba diving, reading, good coffee, and outdoor adventures.

Nathan is currently a DPhil student in the University of Oxford’s Psychiatry Department, researching translational psychiatry for biomarkers in neurodegenerative diseases. Nathan grew up in Torquay, a small coastal town in Devon, England. He recently moved to Canada to support his wife, Ruth, and continue his studies by the sea. In his spare time, Nathan enjoys Brazilian Jui-Jitsu, coffee, good food, and rock climbing.