Meet the Scientist Index Fred H. Gage Explore and Discover with Fred H. Gage: Stem Cells: The Brain's Beginnings Biography Fred H. Gage, a professor in the Laboratory of Genetics at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, concentrates on the adult central nervous system and the unexpected plasticity and adaptability that remains throughout the life of all mammals. His work may lead to methods of replacing brain tissue lost to stroke or Alzheimer's disease and repairing spinal cords damaged by trauma. Gage's lab showed that, contrary to years of dogma, human beings are capable of growing new nerve cells throughout life. Small populations of immature nerve cells are found in the adult mammalian brain, and Gage is working to understand how these cells can be induced to become mature nerve cells. Gage's team is investigating how such cells can be transplanted back to the brain and spinal cord. They showed that physical exercise can enhance the growth of new brain cells and are examining the underlying molecular mechanisms, work that may lead to new therapeutics for neurodegenerative conditions. Interview Conducted by Matthew Busse Q: What led you into science? A: I started doing research when I was a freshman in college. My sister was a scientist, and had always encouraged me towards science, but I didn't really get into it until I started working in a lab during the summer at the end of my freshman year. It was an electrophysiology lab, which studied epilepsy at the time. I knew I liked it right from the very beginning. In fact I still do some of the same experiments I did back in 1969. There's been a lot of revolutions in biology and a lot of new technologies, but there's still much to learn about the brain. Q: What do you like best about science? A: Discovery. I like the thrill of being involved in discovering new things that no one else knows. I also like the people that I interact with everyday and collaborate with. I like the empiricism, the fact that science is information based. The empirical method is a great way to approach questions. Another thing, it's a meritocracy, people are promoted and acknowledged based on their achievements, not based on who your parents are, what nationality you are, or the color of your skin. For the most part, it's only based on merit. Q: What do you like least about science? A: Um, gosh. (long pause) Well, I think we need more of science reaching out to the public. We need to do a better job of communicating to the public, not only the facts, but also the enthusiasm and the rationale behind science. That's why I'm happy to be involved in events like Grey Matters, because part of their objective is to connect with the public. Q: What about outside of lab, what other activities do you enjoy? A: I am a scientist, but I do enjoy regular physical activity. I like competitive sports, I play squash and run. I stay in good physical shape to help me be a better scientist. Also, like most people, I enjoy reading and traveling. Q: Do you have any suggestions for high school students who are interested in science? A: My advice to any student with even an inkling of interest in science is to get into a lab as soon as possible, at any level. Even if you start off just washing dishes, once you're in there, in that environment, you can demonstrate that you're reliable, careful and trustworthy. In a short period of time, you'll be promoted up the ladder, and ultimately get involved in an experiment. Once you're involved in discovering something, then you're hooked. My lab has had high school students from several San Diego schools. We've worked with students of all levels from sophomores to seniors. It's a great experience for us and them.