We are pleased to share a recording of a recent presentation given by Peter Spencer, Ph.D., FANA, FRCPath, Professor of Neurology, OHSU School of Medicine. We thank the OHSU Brain Institute for sponsoring, capturing and sharing this interesting and important BRAINet presentation: From Guam to the French Alps: Naturally occurring chemicals and ALS from December 20, 2021.

This presentation includes discussions about the toxicity of “false morels” and other naturally occurring substances, and correlations between them and the development of neurological diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The talk also reminds us all that simply because something is “natural” doesn’t mean it is good for our health, and in fact quite the converse can be the case for some substances.

Many of our stakeholders and partners know Dr. Spencer for his knowledge of toxicology and neurology, but also as the first director of the Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences predecessor, the Center for Research on Occupational and Environmental Toxicology (CROET). Dr. Spencer today is among our Affiliated Faculty, and he continues to provide his knowledge and expertise to the world of research.  On a personal front, I’m also appreciative that Dr. Spencer hired me many years ago!

Watch the entire presentation here.

Related Resources
Oregon Poison Center
OccHealthSci Information Center
BBC 1989 Movie: The Poison That Waits