Ask Acumen

Elizabeth Johnson, PhD

Senior Scientist, Discovery

How long have you been involved in Alzheimer’s research?

I became interested in Alzheimer’s disease research when my grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Seeing firsthand how hard the loss of identity was, for both the sufferer and their loved ones, motivated me to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms and therapies. I started studying oxidative changes associated with neurodegeneration in my undergraduate research lab. I continued pursuing Alzheimer’s disease research in my PhD studies, testing the effects of molecules that could interfere with amyloid beta oligomer formation, binding, and downstream neurodegeneration as potential interventions to disrupt the pathologic mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease. After completing my PhD, I joined Acumen in 2023.

What initially drew you to Acumen and our company’s mission?

I was drawn to Acumen’s vision of applying a deep scientific understanding of the role of amyloid beta oligomers in the molecular mechanisms of disease to help those with Alzheimer’s disease and their families.

Which of Acumen’s four values (People, Integrity, Innovation, and Perseverance) resonates most with your work and role?

Perseverance is essential as a scientist. Learning from failures, adapting, and iteratively developing a new plan has helped me to design the best experiments that I can to better understand the molecular mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease, to craft the best suited bioassays to measure new analytes, and to more clearly communicate science to others. At Acumen, I am inspired by the fact that we are joined by many other scientists, physicians, patients, and their loved ones all persevering in the effort to fight Alzehimer’s disease.

From your perspective, what sets our company apart in the field of Alzheimer’s research?

Acumen is set apart by our understanding of the most cutting-edge science in Alzheimer’s disease research. We understand that Alzheimer’s disease is more than just large plaques and tangles visible in tissue. It is instigated by soluble oligomers, which act at synapses to cause neurodegeneration involving neurons and glial cells. Our focus on this innovative target sets us apart for the potential to make a major impact to help patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests that you enjoy in your free time?

Outside of work, I love to go hiking with friends and family. Being out in nature, deep in the misty giant redwood forests, walking out across the rolling hills, or climbing a ridge by a glacial lake, recharges my batteries, and reminds me of the moments and memories that anti-Alzheimer’s therapies are designed to help protect.