Over 50 Years of Bold Research
We believe that having the courage to invest in innovative ideas will lead to revolutionary therapies. Explore how the research we’ve funded has fostered life-changing breakthroughs across Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma.
1 in 7
People over age 40 in the U.S. affected by Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, or glaucoma.
186
Active scientific projects funded by BrightFocus worldwide.
6,573
Scientists from 25 countries supported by BrightFocus grants working toward cures.
Resources
We’re here for you.
Why Some Brains Stay Sharp With Age
Learn how cognitive reserve can make some people more resistant to memory decline.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease affects people’s memories, but it involves far more than simple forgetfulness. Learn more about this devastating disease.
Understanding Stem Cell Research for Macular Degeneration
Dr. Jeffrey Stern and Dr. Sally Temple, Principal Investigators and Co-Founders of the Neural Stem Cell Institute, will explain what stem cells are and share the latest updates from clinical trials.
FDA-Approved Alzheimer’s Therapies Infographic
Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, certain treatments can help control or delay its symptoms, particularly in the early stages of the disease. Talk to your physician to see if these medications are right for you.
The Gut Microbiome and Alzheimer’s Disease: Understanding the Connection
Join Dr. Beau Ances of Washington University in St. Louis to learn about the emerging science linking gut health and brain health.
Dry Eye and Glaucoma
Dr. Astrid Werner explains what causes dry eye, how to recognize the symptoms, and effective treatment options—including preservative-free drops, artificial tears, and eyelid care routines.
“Help the One You Can”
Meet Mel and Irene Sahyun, donors to BrightFocus’ Alzheimer’s Disease Research program.
Finding Purpose and Community Through Supporting Research
Dave and Leanna Palmer share their commitment to supporting Macular Degeneration Research.
Paying Forward the Benefits of Research
Meet Richard, a loyal donor to BrightFocus’ National Glaucoma Research and Macular Degeneration Research programs.
Virtual Programs
Connect With Experts
Explore a variety of programs for people with Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration, and glaucoma to hear directly from experts, ask questions, and build community.
Zoom In on Dementia & Alzheimer’s
A live, interactive virtual discussion series with renowned research scientists and clinicians to keep you informed about the latest brain health breakthroughs and findings.
Macular Chats
Accessible audio conversations with scientists and vision experts about treatments, research breakthroughs, news, and tips for living with macular degeneration.
Glaucoma Chats
Scientists and vision experts weigh in about treatments, research breakthroughs, news, and tips for living with glaucoma through accessible audio conversations.
News
Accelerating Progress in Brain and Vision Science
New Supplement to Prevent Macular Degeneration Inspires Deeper Search for Cures
A Macular Degeneration Research-funded scientist launched a supplement based on a link he discovered between the eye disease and Parkinson’s disease. Now he’s continuing research in the hopes of finding novel cures.
New Clues in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s: Q&A with Dr. Keith Hengen
During World Alzheimer’s Month, Alzheimer’s Disease Research grantee Dr. Keith Hengen joined BrightFocus’ Dr. Sharyn Rossi on Instagram Live to talk brain health—how the brain functions, why quality sleep matters, and tips to keep your brain healthy.
Protecting Vision: A New Approach to Scar-Free Healing From Glaucoma Surgery
BrightFocus National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist Jennifer Fan Gaskin, PhD, is exploring safer, more effective treatments to prevent scarring after glaucoma filtration surgery, also known as trabeculectomy.
National Glaucoma Research Grantee Receives $2.2 Million Follow-On Award Aimed at Curing Blindness
Additional funding is propelling BrightFocus-funded scientist Jason Meyer, PhD, toward advances in whole-eye transplantation.
Targeting Genetic Triggers of Inflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease
A BrightFocus Alzheimer’s Disease Research-funded scientist is investigating how “jumping genes” may fuel brain inflammation in Alzheimer’s—and whether blocking them could prevent or slow dementia.
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Transform Glaucoma Detection
A National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist is pioneering the use of artificial intelligence and telemedicine to detect glaucoma earlier, improve access to care, and prevent irreversible blindness.
Transforming Macular Degeneration Care With Long-Acting Treatment
With funding from Macular Degeneration Research, Dr. Daisy Shu is exploring advanced drug delivery systems that release medicine slowly over time. This innovative approach could reduce the number of injections needed for macular degeneration while maintaining vision-saving results.
Macular Degeneration Research News: Summer 2025
In this issue: Can Stem Cells Restore Vision Loss? Your Macula—How It Works and How to Protect It, Announcing $3.8 Million in Grants to Save Sight, and more!
Alzheimer’s Science News: Summer 2025
In this issue: Hope for Adults with Down Syndrome, Preview of New Research, Hygiene Tips for Those with Alzheimer’s, and more!
Perspectives
I appreciate BrightFocus Foundation’s support of funding high-risk, high-reward projects. That is what truly investing in the next generation of scientists means—supporting these new ideas, which can sometimes be high risk. But they also come with high rewards, and that is helping us to bring new ideas to the table.
Zahra Shirzadi, PhD, Alzheimer’s Disease Research Grant Recipient
After I was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, I had no idea where to turn. Fortunately, a friend and neighbor shared with me a newsletter from BrightFocus Foundation. Since then, I have participated in the nonprofit’s monthly Macular Chats and Age-Related Macular Degeneration Community Circle group. I’ve been able to connect with people across the U.S. who are also living with macular degeneration. BrightFocus has been a huge part of my life.
Maureen Foley, Diagnosed with macular degeneration
BrightFocus serves as a crucial catalyst for the careers of emerging investigators. By making their new findings possible, BrightFocus supports entire communities of scientists who have dedicated their lives to addressing these brain and eye conditions.
John S. Penn, PhD, Associate Dean and Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
I am an artist, and shortly after I was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, I printed out a picture I painted to bring to my eye doctor. It was a picture of my granddaughter drinking a cup of hot cocoa. I wanted him to see what I do and how important my vision is to me.
Wynicia Clute, Diagnosed with macular degeneration
Donate Now to Fund Critical Research
Your gift today can help drive innovation in Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration, and glaucoma research. By donating, you’ll support life-changing research and provide valuable resources for those affected by these devastating diseases. Give now to fuel hope and bring us closer to finding cures.
Get Involved
Ways to Support Our Work
There are many ways to get involved and help us defeat diseases of mind and sight.
Help Find a Cure
Nearly 1 in 10 U.S. adults aged 65 and older has dementia. Macular degeneration and glaucoma are leading causes of irreversible blindness, robbing millions of Americans of their vision and independence. Help us end these diseases for good.
Search for a Clinical Trial
Clinical trials are key to advancing medical science, breakthroughs, treatments, and cures.
Their success depends on volunteer participants. Learn more about the clinical trial process and find a clinical trial near you.
Become a Partner
We work with public and private companies that share our values and commitment to end these diseases.