Decoding Darkness: The Search For The Genetic Causes Of Alzheimer's Disease Paperback – December 1, 2001

Dr. Tanzi takes us into the fascinating and complex world of Alzheimer's Disease research--and shows us how imperative it is that better treatments and a cure be found for this horrible disease - and soon. Current treatments only delay the inevitable and with a Baby Boomer turning 65 every 13 seconds (10,000 a day for the next 18 years) the `Silver Tsunami' is fast approaching. The problem is by age 65, one in eight is afflicted with AD, and by age 85 (the fastest growing segment of population) nearly one in every two. Businesses lose multi-$billions a year due to AD, partly from absenteeism and lost productivity from employees' need to care for loved ones. Since there are 37+ million Seniors now and in two decades there will be 70+ million more - more funds are desperately needed for AD research. Dr. Tanzi has shown us how the research works and what needs to be done - now!-Jacqueline Marcell, Author 'Elder Rage, or Take My Father... Please! How to Survive Caring for Aging Parents', International Speaker on Eldercare & Alzheimer's

Tanzi and Parson tell a fascinating story of medical discovery with great excitement and clarity. The science was not sugar coated, but was very clearly explained and written in a very literary and often amusing manner. The descriptions of the human genome project in this book were in many ways superior to those that have appeared in books prepared specifically on the topic. My interest in this book was prompted not so much from an interest in Alzheimers disease but originally came from a recommendation from a friend who actively reads books about the human genome revolution and gene research. After reading the book, I would definitely agree with her opinion that no other book in the genre explains the goals behind the human genome project (and especially how they relate to disease based research) as well as "Decoding Darkness". Also, the story of the family with inherited Alzheimers that runs parallel with the main story about the research was quite touching and provided a very nice break the excitement and hustle and bustle of the research discoveries described. Overall, I would have to say this is one of the best science genre books I have ever read...maybe the best after "The Double Helix". HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

Tanzi and Parsons have written the best science-hunt book since The Double Helix. Tanzi's adult life has clearly been dedicated to the search for the causes of Alzheimer's disease, and his single-minded drive comes through in every page. It is fascinating to learn how passion rules not just art and performance professions, but also (perhaps even to a greater degree) scientific research. The fun, excitement and committment of Tanzi and his colleagues in their pursuit of this disease is related with candor and vividness, and is truly accessible to the lay audience. Tanzi and Parsons have successfully spanned both art (music), philosophy (taoism) and science (genetics) with admirable elan. The book has its biases, but the authors do not hide the autobiographical nature of the narrative. Science might also be written by the victors, and Tanzi and his brilliant team of scientists deserve to record their history, since their contributions have changed the world we live in. The book ends with a vision that this previously hopeless disease will be conquered within our lifetimes. This is a fascinating, and exhilirating perpective. I recommend this book to all science readers with great enthusiasm.

After reading Decoding Darkness, I have new hope to there being a cure found for Alzheimer's Disease within my life time. My uncle was recently diagnosed with the disease and it has devastated our family. After reading this fascinating book, I have new hope and faith. Dr. Rudolph Tanzi is a brilliant scientist and is the co-author of this book, in which the research of this disease is told to us in terms that anyone can understand. If anyone you love is afflicted with this disease, this book is for you. And if you are lucky enough to have never known anyone who suffers from this disease, I would still recommend this book, as it is interesting and explains what research if all about, no matter what disease is being researched.

Decoding Darkness besides being a very informative book on the dreaded disease of Alzheimer's each new chapter depicts a real family whose mother was afflicted at a very young age. It takes in the accounts of this woman going from a loving, devoted mother, to a person not being able to remember her own name. As each chapter goes by the story of this family becomes more sensitive and warming to the heart. This courageous family is mentioned throughout the book and take part in Dr. Tanzi's research at Mass. General Hospital in Boston, MA. Must read for anyone who has a family they love.

Decoding Darkness is a fascinating book that takes into the world of research. After reading this book, you will no longer think of scientist as nerdy little men and women in white coats, but as real people who dedicate their lives to save others. The book reads easily, as it is interesting, informative, and written humerously.