Brain Waste Clearance

Why It Matters

Understanding brain waste clearance could unlock therapies that slow dementia, impacting millions worldwide and opening new biotech avenues.

Key Takeaways

• MIT PhD student studies brain waste clearance mechanisms
• Focus on lymphatic system's role in neurodegenerative disease
• Research examines cellular control of fluid flow in brain
• Goal: develop treatments to slow dementia progression worldwide
• Collaboration within MIT MechE community enhances interdisciplinary insights

Summary

Jackie T. Sale, a second‑year PhD student in MIT’s Mechanical Engineering department, presented her research on brain waste clearance at the MechE Mirror event. Her work investigates how the brain’s lymphatic system removes toxins, focusing on the cellular mechanics that regulate fluid flow.

The study highlights that impaired clearance contributes to neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia. By quantifying cell‑level forces and flow dynamics, the research aims to map the pathways through which waste is expelled, offering a mechanistic target for therapeutic intervention.

Sale noted, “The community here in MechE is phenomenal… it drives me to tackle diseases affecting millions.” She emphasized both the collaborative environment and the urgency of translating basic insights into clinical solutions.

If successful, these findings could inform new drug‑delivery strategies or bio‑engineered therapies that enhance lymphatic clearance, potentially slowing disease progression and reducing the global burden of dementia.

Original Description

The Mechanical Engineering Research Exhibition (MERE) brings visibility to the diverse research portfolios across MechE while building a stronger, more connected community of scholars and engineers. MERE 2026 showcased 58 research posters. Participants had the opportunity to receive valuable feedback, explore potential collaborations, and celebrate diverse work happening across the department. Here, Jacqui van Zyl showcases her project researching brain waste clearance.