Artificial intelligence is poised to transform healthcare in a major way, and MIT’s Regina Barzilay is at the forefront of research into this rapidly evolving technology. In conversation with Globe health and medical editor Anna Kuchment, she will share insight around AI’s current use in healthcare and the possibilities ahead, from cancer detection to drug development and beyond.

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that affects nearly 7 million Americans, and by 2050, that number is projected to grow to about 13 million. The devastating disease has been the subject of intense research and promising biotech breakthroughs, from new drugs to screening strategies that detect markers years before onset. Biotechnology and life sciences reporter Jonathan Saltzman is joined by a panel of local leaders at the helm of these developments to discuss the treatments on the horizon.

As Alzheimer's disease research advances and new treatments emerge, hospitals and health systems are tasked with adapting their practices to make these treatments accessible to patients. In this fireside chat, Lee Gervitz, PhD, MBA, Vice President and Head of North America Medical, Biogen, sits down with Dr. Brent Forester, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Tufts Medical Center, Interim Chair of the Department of Neurology at Tufts Medical Center, Director of Behavioral Health for Tufts Medicine and the Dr. Frances S. Arkin Chair of Psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine to examine how the healthcare system is evolving to serve Alzheimer's disease patients, and the approaches they are using to put latest treatments into practice. Dr. Forester will share insight into how they are modifying workflows, overcoming challenges, and enhancing patient outcomes as new treatment options become a reality.

Vaccines are a public health anchor, playing a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and safeguarding communities across the globe. Biotech and life sciences reporter Robert Weisman moderates a discussion looking at vaccine development for current and future immunizations. The panel will consider the integration of new cutting-edge technologies and the next generation of testing for conditions like bird flu and more.

Thanks to advances in DNA sequencing, experts are optimistic about a new frontier in cancer research with the ability to attack cancer with more precision. Treatments, such as messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, could provide more effective and individualized care by enhancing the immune system's ability to identify and attack cancer cells. Hear from industry leaders and researchers investigating precision approaches to shape the future of cancer care.

Learn about cutting-edge advancements in organ transplantation across human, animal and technological domains. Globe health reporter Adam Piore brings together a group of local leaders who will shed light on where this breakthrough research is headed next and what it means for patients. Discover the latest developments and future possibilities as these experts delve into innovations that are transforming the field and improving lives.

Massachusetts is widely recognized as a center of scientific discovery, with UMass Chan Medical School at the heart of much of this work. In particular, the school’s strength in RNA science has contributed to new knowledge and new therapies for certain types of cancer, metabolic diseases, viral infections and neurological disorders including Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, ALS and more. On the heels of the commonwealth’s only public medical school being awarded a second Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, hear how the school has become a destination – and a place of great hope – for people and families with rare genetic diseases.

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape the healthcare landscape, the industry must distinguish between its transformative potential and overhyped promises. Join a fireside chat with Mass General Brigham’s chief innovation officer and Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Health & Life Sciences (HLS) Solutions and Platforms as they explore the future of healthcare, the evolving role of AI, and how to leverage these technologies responsibly. Topics of discussion will focus on identifying practical, high-impact AI applications that are already making a difference, and how to navigate the hype cycle to avoid costly missteps.

More information to be announced soon! 

More information to be announced soon!