How a Flickering Light Holds Promise in Alzheimer’s Treatment and Prevention | Dr. Mai Nguyen

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 21:37:52 +0000

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I’m thrilled to announce this exciting podcast episode featuring an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Mai Nguyen, CEO and Co-founder of OptoCeutics. Dr. Nguyen is a pioneering force in the field of neurotechnology, and in this episode, we unpack her revolutionary work using non-invasive light stimulation to enhance brain function and potentially prevent neurodegenerative disease.

At the center of our conversation is the EVY, a 40 Hertz light stimulation device developed by OptoCeutics under Dr. Nguyen’s leadership. This device is designed to target and enhance gamma oscillations in the brain—a specific frequency range of neural activity (around 40 Hz) that is critically involved in memory, attention, and perception. In recent years, scientific studies have linked disruptions in gamma oscillations with the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. By restoring these rhythms, the EVY device aims to provide a non-pharmacological, non-invasive way to support brain health.

During our podcast, Dr. Nguyen explains how EVY works: the device emits flickering light at a precise 40 Hz frequency, which is thought to entrain brain activity to resonate at that same frequency. This gentle stimulation may help reduce amyloid-beta accumulation, improve neural connectivity, and promote immune system engagement in the brain—mechanisms that could slow or even reverse aspects of cognitive decline.

What sets Dr. Nguyen apart is not just her scientific brilliance, but her deep commitment to translating research into real-world solutions. She leads OptoCeutics with a clear mission: to bring accessible, evidence-based neurotechnology into homes and clinics, empowering people to take charge of their cognitive well-being. Her approach is both deeply human and rigorously scientific, blending innovation with empathy.

As you’ll hear in the interview, Dr. Nguyen's work exemplifies the exciting convergence of biology, technology, and therapeutic application. She speaks candidly about the challenges of advancing a novel therapy in a world still catching up to the implications of gamma entrainment, and why mainstream medicine is just beginning to recognize the vast potential of non-invasive neuromodulation.

This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in the future of brain health, the science of neuroplasticity, and the promise of light-based therapies. Whether you're a clinician, researcher, caregiver, or simply curious about how to support your brain as you age, Dr. Nguyen’s insights will leave you informed, inspired, and hopeful.

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0:00 Intro
2:46 How Dr. Mai Started Studying it
5:16 How Light Enhances Gamma Oscillation
7:22 Promise of These Studies
8:51 How the EVY Device Works
11:20 Early Clinical Results + Potential Side Effects
13:53 Application of this technology
16:36 Why Mainstream is Late to Adopt This
22:04 Impact of Auditory Stimulation
23:38 The Future of This Research
25:25 Get Involved Today
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Dr. Nguyen is a trailblazer in neurotechnology, pioneering advancements in non-invasive brain stimulation technology for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s and dementia. As CEO and Co-founder of OptoCeutics, Dr. Nguyen leads the charge in bridging the gap between neuroscience and therapeutic innovation, offering new hope to millions affected by cognitive decline.

Under Dr. Nguyen’s leadership, Optoceutics has become a frontrunner in brain stimulation technology and a recognized authority in non-invasive neuromodulation. Her unique approach combines rigorous scientific methodology with groundbreaking therapeutic solutions.

This vision is shaped by her academic excellence, including a PhD in Integrative Biology at the University of California, Berkeley with a specialization in Neuroendocrinology, and her extensive training in management, technology innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Nguyen’s strategic leadership extends beyond scientific breakthroughs. She has cultivated a culture of innovation and excellence at Optoceutics, fostering collaboration between cutting-edge research and practical therapeutic applications. Her emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and human-centered values ensures that OptoCeutics not only excels in technical innovation but also remains deeply connected to the people it serves.

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