My guest for this episode is Dr. Tessa Hadlock, a renowned facial plastic surgeon and expert in facial nerve disorders. Dr. Hadlock discusses her pioneering work in facial paralysis treatments, specifically focusing on conditions related to Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2). The conversation delves into the various surgical and non-surgical options for facial reanimation, their associated risks, and long-term outcomes. Dr. Hadlock also emphasizes the importance of patient self-advocacy and the need for ongoing innovation and thorough tracking of medical results to improve quality of life for facial paralysis patients.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

03:01 Dr. Hadlock's Background and Expertise

03:55 Understanding Facial Paralysis and Reanimation

06:42 Facial Paralysis in NF2 Patients

10:18 Treatment Options for Facial Paralysis

12:42 Surgical Techniques and Considerations

21:07 Physical Therapy and Botox for Facial Paralysis

31:44 Outcomes and Success Rates

40:16 Challenges in Medical Practice and Innovation

57:38 The Importance of Patient Advocacy

59:30 Conclusion and Closing Remarks

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• Waz
• Annette B.
• Brianna W
• Rosemary Anderson

In this episode, my guest is Dr. David Gutmann, a leading neurologist specializing in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1). The conversation delves into Dr. Gutmann's groundbreaking research on the NF1 protein neurofibromin and its role in downregulating the RAS/RAF/MAPK cell signaling pathway. We explore various neurological issues associated with NF1, such as learning problems, brain tumors, and ADHD. Dr. Gutmann shares insights on current and future treatments, including MEK inhibitors and potential therapies targeting the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, we discuss the application of AI and machine learning in predicting disease risk and developing more personalized treatments. Our conversation underscores the importance of thinking about NF1 as a complex system and highlights the broader implications of NF research for other medical fields.

For a bit of background on RAS/RAF/MAPK here is a thorough and helpful video that explains cell signaling: The MAP Kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway

If you really want to delve into the details on this fascinating topic, here is another link that gets into the technical minutia: The Open University -- Cell Signalling

During the interview, Dr. Gutmann references a paper his team recently published in collaboration with Dr. Michelle Monje's lab. That paper is Nf1 mutation disrupts activity-dependent oligodendroglial plasticity and motor learning in mice

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

00:22 Meet Dr. David Gutmann

00:32 Dr. Gutmann's Research and Achievements

02:36 Interview Expectations and Technical Notes

04:53 Starting the Interview

05:07 Dr. Gutmann's Early Career and NF1 Research

07:11 Understanding Neurofibromin and RAS Pathway

09:27 Exploring Neurofibromin's Other Functions

20:28 Neurological Manifestations of NF1

21:45 Behavioral Disorders and NF1

28:10 Current and Future Treatments for NF1

32:06 The Future of NF Research

36:14 The Role of AI and Genomics in NF1

48:31 Challenges and Opportunities in NF Research

50:41 Closing Remarks and Optimism for the Future

53:45 Episode Conclusion and Acknowledgements

If you'd like to support the show, we now have a Patreon membership! Sign up and get episodes over a week before they are released to the main feed!

• Waz
• Annette B.
• Brianna W
• Rosemary Anderson

My guest this episode is John Manth, father of Leah Manth, who was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2-SWN) in 2007. John discusses their family's journey in seeking treatments and a cure for NF2, his extensive involvement in various NF organizations, and the impactful role of their service dog, Dasher. The conversation covers topics such as the training process for service dogs, the importance of service animals for individuals with disabilities, and the special relationship between Leah and Dasher. John also emphasizes the significance of community involvement and advocacy in the NF community.

00:00 Introduction
00:16 Meet John Math: Advocate and Father
00:43 John's Advocacy and Achievements
02:50 Interview with John Manth Begins
03:07 Leah's Diagnosis and Journey
03:45 The Role of Service Dogs
05:32 Meet Dasher: Leah's Service Dog
06:01 Training and Adaptation
08:05 The Amazing Adaptability of NF Patients
10:46 Legalities and Logistics of Service Dogs
18:40 Long-Term Outlook and Retirement of Service Dogs
23:35 The Bond Between Leah and Dasher
23:50 Training and Adaptation for Evolving Needs
24:59 Service Dogs for Various Disabilities
25:58 Heartwarming Stories of Service Dogs
28:16 Types of Working Dogs and Their Roles
31:00 Traveling with a Service Dog
32:33 The Reality of Owning a Service Dog
34:46 Future Considerations and Assistive Technologies
38:57 Getting Involved and Finding Support
42:15 Conclusion and Contact Information

• Waz
• Annette B.
• Brianna W
• Rosemary Anderson