The Neurochemistry Podcast

In this episode of The Neurochemistry Podcast, host Nawon Kim speaks with Dr. Andrew Hill about extracellular vesicles - tiny particles released by cells that can carry proteins, lipids, RNA, and other signals through the body. Together, they explore how these vesicles may contribute to the spread of misfolded proteins in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, and prion disease, as well as their potential use as biomarkers and therapeutic tools. The conversation also touches on diagnosis, the blood-brain barrier, green lab practices, sustainability in research, and Andrew’s advice for young scientists building a career in science.

In this episode of The Neurochemistry Podcast, host Will Sanchez speaks with Dr. Ana Maria Cuervo about autophagy - the cell’s own cleaning and recycling system - and why it matters for brain health. Together, they explore how cells remove damaged components, what happens when this process slows down with aging, and how this can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The conversation also touches on lysosomes, cellular “garbage” and recycling, sleep, nutrition, diversity in science, women in research, and the importance of basic science in developing future treatments.

In this episode of The Neurochemistry Podcast, host Nawon Kim speaks with Dr. Michelle Roche about the complex relationship between pain, stress, mood, and the brain. Together, they explore why chronic pain is more than a physical sensation, how stress can change pain perception, and why sex differences matter in pain research and treatment. The conversation also touches on endocannabinoid and opioid systems, the challenges of pain management, the opioid crisis, personalized medicine, and the importance of better support for patients. Michelle also shares honest reflections on life in science, mentorship, work-life balance, and building a meaningful research career. amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

In this episode of The Neurochemistry Podcast, host Will Sanchez speaks with Dr. Anna Beyeler about the science of anxiety and what happens in the brain when we anticipate danger. Together, they explore the difference between fear and anxiety, when anxiety becomes a disorder, and how brain regions such as the insular cortex and amygdala contribute to anxious behaviour. The conversation also touches on dopamine, psychedelics, brain plasticity, mental health treatments, the importance of basic research, and advice for young scientists building a career in neuroscience.