1. Can you please briefly summarize the paper?

  Recent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteomic research categorized AD into five molecular subtypes with discrete genetic risk profiles. Subtypes 1-3, namely neuronal hyperplasticity, innate immune activation, and RNA dysregulation, were characterized by more classical AD-related changes, like accumulation of amyloid/tau, and synaptic and immune dysfunction. On the contrary, non-traditional AD mechanisms were exhibited in subtypes 4-5 (choroid plexus (CP) dysfunction and blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction), emphasizing clearance deficits in association with brain barrier dysfunction. This review is a comprehensive review that categorizes potential blood-based biomarkers (BBMs) based on neuronal hyperplasticity (subtype I), underlining their role in refining subtype classification and enabling precision medicine. Early AD is often marked by cortical and hippocampal hyperactivity, followed by hypoactivity during later stages of neurodegeneration. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, factors like Ca²⁺, glutamate, Aβ, tau, genetic factors, and impaired glial function play a role.
   This review introduced proteins associated with synaptic function, axonal growth, and neural plasticity, such as GAP43, neurogranin, and SNAP25, as potential non-invasive markers reflective of early compensatory responses in AD. By integrating proteomic insights from CSF studies with accessible blood-based detection strategies, the paper emphasized the potential for personalized diagnostics and targeted therapeutic interventions in subtype-specific AD progression.

2. Can you please tell us the main difficulties you had in the laboratory work and how you overcame them?

  In my research career spanning over two decades, one of the key difficulties I encountered in research was the occasional stress when experiments did not yield the expected results, which is common in biological research. But instead of getting discouraged I treated these as opportunities to improve experimental design, troubleshoot systematically, and explore alternative approaches. For instance, modifying assay protocols, re-analyzing data trends, or validating results through complementary models helped overcome many such hurdles.
I joined Gachon University during the COVID pandemic, which was a difficult time globally and in my recent career too. It was quite stressful for me as a foreign researcher adjusting to new processes, and stringent public health regulations. It was difficult to adjust to a new research setting, collaboration was limited to virtual meetings. I managed to maintain my focus in spite of these challenges by meticulously organizing and ranking experiments that could be carried out in constrained settings. I was lucky to have extremely helpful Professor and lab mates who were consistently supportive and eager to assist. Their advice helped me to adapt more easily during the hard times.
I would also like to mention that I had the opportunity to work both in academic labs and private research institutes. I have observed several differences between working in these two setups. Specially, in the private research institutes, there is a significant pressure to meet deadlines and it is discouraging at times when you get negative feedback. However, these difficulties also taught me a lot about maintaining composure under pressure, and figuring out how to continue working even when things get difficult.
Looking back, I can say that the limitations imposed by the epidemic and the experimental setbacks and working in different research setups made me more adaptable, patient, and creative, qualities that continue to inform my current scientific work.

3. Please introduce your laboratory, university or organization to bio-researchers in Korea.

  Presently, I’m a key member of the Lab of Ageing-Related Diseases at the Bionano Research Institute, Gachon University, where I work alongside Professor Seong Soo A. An on the therapeutic and diagnostic investigation of Alzheimer’s disease. Prof. An’s lab is highly interdisciplinary, integrates biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and clinical data to bridge the gap between bench and bedside. Our team has made significant contributions in areas such as CSF and blood biomarker discovery, prion disease mechanisms, protein multimer detection, and the neuroprotective roles of phytocompounds. Gachon University actively promotes global cooperation and innovation in the biomedical sciences, and the Bionano Research Institute itself provides a dynamic research environment with cutting-edge resources. Opportunities to work together with researchers from all around Korea and beyond are greatly appreciated.

4. Please tell us your experiences and your thoughts related to research activities abroad.

  As listed in the authors’ affiliations, this study was conducted under the prestigious Alzheimer’s Disease All Markers (ADAM) Research Group and international collaboration. The ADAM Research Group was established 20 years ago to create an open scientific discussion platform for diagnosis and treatment advancements for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. The ADAM group comprises of clinicians and neurologists (Veterans Health Service Medical Center, Gachon University Gil Hospital, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Ewha Woman’s University College of Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine), industry scientists (PeopleBio), and researchers and academicians (Gachon university). The group meets weekly to review global research, exchange insights, and promote interdisciplinary collaborations. It's led by distinguished neurologists Prof. SangYun Kim (Seoul National University Bundang Hospital) and Prof. Young Chul Youn (Chung-Ang University, College of Medicine), along with our lab.
  Our international collaborators included Dr. Charlotte Teunissen (Prof of Neurochemistry at the Amsterdam University Medical Center in the Netherlands), Dr. Henrik Zetterberg (Head of the Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry at University of Gothenburg and a Clinical Chemist at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sweden), Dr. Philip Scheltens (Professor of Cognitive Neurology at the VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam), Dr. Young-Bum Kim (Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School,) and Dr Hyun-Sik Yang (Professor of Neurology at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston). They are leaders in the fields of neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases. In this review, we actively worked to translate CSF biomarker findings into plasma, particularly focusing on their application as diagnostic or prognostic indicators with clinical interests of using fluid biomarkers for AD.
  Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to engage in research activities across South Korea and Japan, which have been deeply enriching both professionally and personally. My early postdoctoral work at Kongju National University, Chonbuk National University, and Kyoto Pharmaceutical University allowed me to gain hands-on experience in assay development, downstream processing, and analytical techniques such as GC-MS and HPLC. Later, during my postdoctoral tenure at Chungnam National University, I worked on screening chemically synthesized compounds for cardiovascular targets, which sharpened my skills in pharmacological screening and drug discovery. Currently, as Assistant Professor at Gachon University, I focus on neurodegenerative disease research, particularly Alzheimer’s, using both in vitro and in silico approaches to evaluate neuroprotective phytocompounds and identify novel biomarkers besides contributing to international collaborations, high-impact publications, and patents. Being a part of the ADAM Research group has further strengthened the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing biomedical research. Participating in international research teams has demonstrated the significant benefits of working with scientists from abroad, which the introductions of new concepts and varied methods are crucial for addressing global health issues.

5. Can you provide some advice for younger scientists who have plans to study abroad?

  Studying abroad is not just an academic endeavor, it is a life-changing journey that shapes both your career and personality. It opens up access to advanced research facilities, international collaborations, and fresh perspectives that can broaden your scientific outlook. One of the most important qualities to carry with you is flexibility. Every country has its own academic culture, work ethics, and communication style. So, be ready to adapt, observe, and learn from your surroundings. Keep an open mind, not just to scientific ideas, but also to cultural differences and new ways of thinking. Building strong relationships with your mentors and lab members can make a big difference in your experience. Collaboration is the heart of research, and a supportive lab environment can help you succeed. Do not be afraid to ask questions or seek help, it does not reflect weakness, but a willingness to learn and grow. Also, be prepared for moments of homesickness, language barriers, or even loneliness they are normal and temporary. Find ways to stay connected with your roots while also embracing the opportunity to explore a new culture. Participate in local events, try the food, and learn the language, even if just a little. These small efforts can make your stay much more fulfilling.
Finally, make the most of every opportunity whether it is a seminar, a conference, or a casual lab discussion. These moments can open doors, shape your research interests, and even spark lifelong friendships or collaborations. Studying abroad can truly transform your professional path and expand your view of the world. Be brave, stay curious, have a positive mindset, and enjoy the journey.

6. Future plan?

  I plan to keep working on neurodegenerative disease research, particularly aiming to identify phyto-therapeutic alternatives and reliable blood biomarkers for early detection. I believe that these two areas hold great promise to improve patient care in more accessible, personal ways. In the coming years, I also wish to improve interdisciplinary and foreign collaborations to bring innovative ideas. I'm also considerably dedicated to mentoring young scientists and helping the next generation of researchers. Finally, I see myself contributing to science and society positively by translating lab results into practical application enhancing diagnostics and safer treatments.

7. Do you have anything else that you would like to tell Korean scientists and students?

  I would like to share a few words of encouragement. To all the students and young scientists: stay curious. Never stop asking questions, even if they are as basic as possible. Curiosity is the key of scientific discovery. Do not fear failures as they are a natural and worthwhile component of the learning process. In fact, some of the best concepts arise out of failed experiments. Remember that science isn't all about publishing papers or finding solutions, it is about seeking truth and creating something worthwhile for humanity and the world. Work with integrity, patience, and sincerity and each step, will contribute to your growth. I also encourage you to work with researchers with different backgrounds and countries. International collaborations involve new concepts, novel perspectives, and new opportunities. Science is global, and openness to different ideas can enrich your work. Lastly, enjoy yourself. Science can be difficult sometimes, but it is also completely worth it. Trust in yourself, stay motivated, and help one another because science moves forward best when we grow together. And above all, stay positive even during difficult times and focus on solutions, not problems. Research can be frustrating, but do not let setbacks discourage you. Every challenge is a step forward if you choose to learn from it.