About Brightfocus foundation
BrightFocus Foundation: Advancing Research for Alzheimer's Disease, Macular Degeneration, and Glaucoma
BrightFocus Foundation is a non-profit organization that funds innovative research to find cures for Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. The foundation was established in 1973 with the mission of advancing scientific discoveries that can improve the lives of millions of people affected by these debilitating diseases.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking skills, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia among older adults. Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss among people over 50 years old. It affects the macula, which is responsible for central vision. Glaucoma damages the optic nerve and can lead to blindness if left untreated.
The impact of these diseases on individuals and families cannot be overstated. They rob people of their independence, dignity, and quality of life. They also impose significant economic burdens on society as a whole.
BrightFocus Foundation recognizes the urgency to find effective treatments or cures for these diseases. That's why it invests in cutting-edge research projects that have the potential to make breakthroughs in understanding their causes and developing new therapies.
The foundation has funded more than $220 million in research grants since its inception. Its grants support scientists from around the world who are working on various aspects of Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma research.
One example is Dr. Robert Vassar at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine who received funding from BrightFocus Foundation to study how amyloid beta protein accumulates in Alzheimer’s brains causing damage to neurons leading to cognitive decline.
Another example is Drs.Timothy Kern & Maria Grant at Case Western Reserve University School Of Medicine who received funding from Brightfocus foundation studying how high glucose levels affect blood vessels supplying nutrients & oxygen needed by retinal cells leading to diabetic retinopathy which can lead blindness if not treated early enough
These are just two examples out many researchers supported by Brightfocus foundation whose work has led important discoveries about these diseases which could eventually lead us closer towards finding cures or better treatments options available today!
In addition to funding research projects directly related to these three diseases mentioned above , BrightFocus also supports other initiatives aimed at improving public awareness about them such as educational programs designed help patients understand their conditions better so they can manage them effectively while living fulfilling lives despite challenges posed by their illnesses .
The foundation also collaborates with other organizations dedicated towards advancing medical science through advocacy efforts aimed at increasing government funding for medical research into neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease ,macular degeneration & glaucoma .
Overall,Brightfocus Foundation plays an essential role in advancing scientific knowledge about neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease ,macular degeneration & glaucoma . Its commitment towards supporting innovative researchers working tirelessly towards finding effective treatments or even cures should give hope those affected by these devastating conditions . With continued support from donors worldwide we may one day see an end this suffering caused by neurodegenerative disorders!