2012 Plenary

Rudolph F. Tanzi

Rudolph E. Tanzi   is the Joseph and Rose Kennedy Professor of Neurology at Harvard University, and Director of the Genetics and Aging Research Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). Dr. Tanzi has been investigating the genetics of neurological disease since 1980 when he participated in the study that led the first disease gene to be found by genetic analysis (Huntington's disease). In 1987, Dr. Tanzi isolated the first familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD) gene, known as the amyloid ß-protein (A4) precursor. In 1995, he co-discovered the second two FAD genes: presenilin 1 and 2. Dr. Tanzi is currently carrying out genome wide screens to identify additional AD genes. His research the role of zinc and copper in neurodegeneration has led to successful clinical trials for AD. Dr. Tanzi has received many awards, including the two highest awards for Alzheimer's disease research: The Metropolitan Life Award and Potamkin Prize. In 2007, he was included on the list of the "Harvard 100: Most Influential Alumni". Dr. Tanzi has co-authored over 400 research articles, including three of the top ten most cited AD papers. He also co-authored the popular trade book “Decoding Darkness: The Search for the Genetic Causes of Alzheimer’s Disease”.