Dominican Republic advances Alzheimer's research via AI and microbiome studies

Scientific research initiatives targeting Alzheimer's disease are gaining momentum in the Dominican Republic through collaborations involving artificial intelligence and microbiome studies.

One major project, a partnership between the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC) and AI Robotix, has received government support following a presentation to President Luis Abinader. This initiative integrates artificial intelligence, neuroscience, molecular biology, and data science to accelerate the discovery of new research routes for the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of the neurodegenerative disease. The project utilizes advanced AI models to analyze large volumes of biomedical data and scientific publications to identify patterns and generate new hypotheses.

Concurrently, researchers at the Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM) are investigating the potential connection between gut microbiota and Alzheimer's. Led by researcher Martín Medrano, the study examines how the composition of microorganisms in the digestive system may relate to cognitive processes and genetic risk factors. The research explores the communication between the gut and the brain to better understand mechanisms associated with memory impairment and brain aging.