BrightFocus Foundation Announces $16.2 Million in New Scientific Research

Seeking Cures for Alzheimer’s, Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma

BrightFocus Foundation, a premier source of private research funding to defeat Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma, today announced $16.2 million for 76 new research grants, a record high for the organization. With these latest grant awards, BrightFocus will have invested $43 million in scientific research over the past three years alone.

“These new grants give bold, innovative ideas a chance to succeed.  By pursuing the untried, the unexpected, and the most promising, we are trying to spark new and faster ways to find cures,” said BrightFocus President and CEO Stacy Pagos Haller.  “The graying of the large Baby Boom generation means there is greater urgency than ever to curb these age-related diseases.”

The nonprofit’s 2019 scientific awards will fund a broad array of research around the globe including understanding the genetics of these diseases; improving early detection and diagnosis; and developing new drugs and treatments.

“BrightFocus grant proposals are reviewed by panels of leading experts in each disease,” said Diane Bovenkamp, PhD, BrightFocus Vice President for Scientific Affairs. “They are charged with identifying the bold ‘what-if’s’ of science, the opportunities where our early-stage support may someday save mind and sight for millions around the world.” Details of the new grants will be released this summer, pending completion of contracts with partnering institutions.

BrightFocus is currently managing a global portfolio of nearly 200 research projects. The foundation also shares the latest research findings and best practices with the public to inform and empower those impacted by diseases of mind and sight.  For more information, visit brightfocus.org.