Global News recently featured CLEAR and the groundbreaking work of Dr. Brian MacVicar’s lab in a televised segment highlighting their innovative approach to Alzheimer’s research.

Reported by Safeeya Pirani, Dr. MacVicar showcases his leading-edge research using 3D bioprinting technology to create miniature human brains—also known as neurospheres—to better understand the brain’s resilience in the face of Alzheimer’s disease.

These neurospheres, created from human cells, are treated with specific enzyme activations to simulate interactions between blood and brain cells. This cutting-edge model allows researchers to observe, in real time, how Alzheimer’s disease may progress at the cellular level—particularly examining how it is possible for some individuals to carry the brain pathology of Alzheimer’s and develop the disease, while others do not.

As explained by Dr. MacVicar, this research focuses on understanding the cellular targets and mechanisms behind oxidative stress and tissue damage, which are believed to be early contributors to Alzheimer’s progression. With this deeper understanding, his team hopes to uncover new pathways for treatment, potentially leading to a Canadian-developed therapy for the world’s most common form of dementia—right here in British Columbia.

A testament to CLEAR’s mission is powerfully illustrated by our President, Dr. B. Lynn Beattie, who shares: “My personal belief is that if we’re going to change the course of this disease, we need to intervene earlier.”

This national spotlight underscores not only the urgency of advancing Alzheimer’s research, but also the incredible impact made possible by our donors and partners who fund this pioneering work.

Watch the full Global News segment below or click here.