BrightFocus Announces Record Support for Alzheimer’s and Vision Research

$13.5 million in new grants awarded by nonprofit

Clarksburg MD — BrightFocus Foundation today announced $13.5 million in new scientific research grants seeking cures for Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. This is a record amount for the Maryland-based nonprofit, bringing its scientific investment in these neurodegenerative diseases to $50 million over the past four years alone.

“These heartbreaking diseases rob us of our mind and sight.  This is why BrightFocus is relentless in driving the innovative science that pursues the untried, the unexpected, and the most promising paths to a cure,” said BrightFocus President and CEO Stacy Pagos Haller.

The three diseases targeted by BrightFocus — Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration, and glaucoma — share common neurodegenerative features and do not currently have cures.  The 69 new grants will pursue the root causes of these conditions in genetics, environment, and lifestyle; new technologies for earlier and more accurate diagnosis; and the development of new drugs and therapies.

“The new research projects are tremendously exciting.  They are fresh, creative approaches that are on the leading edge of scientific rigor and discovery,” said Diane Bovenkamp, PhD, the BrightFocus Vice President for Scientific Affairs, noting the grants will go to scientists in the U.S. and around the world.

“I want to thank the generosity of our donors for making it possible to further explore these promising areas of science,” said Haller.

The research awards, which begin July 1, were recommended by BrightFocus peer-review committees and approved by the foundation’s board of directors.  The names of this year’s recipients will be announced after completion of final agreements with researchers and supporting institutions.