The partnership supports an outstanding researcher at UNC Chapel Hill who is advancing novel gene therapy strategies for Alzheimer’s disease.
CLARSKBURG, Md. and RALEIGH, Nc., July 22, 2025 — A new partnership between BrightFocus Foundation’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research program and Dementia Alliance of North Carolina (DANC) will provide critical early support to an emerging investigator advancing exciting Alzheimer’s disease research in North Carolina.
The organizations will co-fund a $300,000, three-year grant to Todd Cohen, PhD, associate professor at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, for his research project, Harnessing the Protein CHIP/STUB1 to Reduce Alzheimer’s Brain Pathology. Dr. Cohen is joined by co-principal investigators Nicolas Brown, PhD, and Jonathan Schisler, PhD.
The grant, named in honor of Lina Mae Edwards, recognizes the support of Guardian Angel Thrift, which funds Dementia Alliance of North Carolina’s programs and research through proceeds from its thrift stores.
Dr. Cohen’s innovative research focuses on a protein called CHIP/STUB1 and its ability to prevent harmful tau protein aggregation—a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. By engineering variants of CHIP that enhance its protective functions, his work aims to reduce tau pathology and improve cognitive outcomes. This line of investigation could pave the way for novel gene therapy approaches to treating Alzheimer’s and related tauopathies.
“We’re thrilled to continue our relationship with Dementia Alliance of North Carolina through this special award. This award is especially near and dear to us, because we truly believe it will open up new avenues for future therapies for Alzheimer’s patients,” said Dr. Cohen.
“This partnership underscores our shared vision of supporting bold, innovative science while nurturing talented investigators in North Carolina,” said Stacy Pagos Haller, President and CEO of BrightFocus Foundation. “We are excited to work with Dementia Alliance of North Carolina to accelerate research that could transform our understanding and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.”
“This collaboration with BrightFocus Foundation is a meaningful step forward for families in North Carolina and beyond who are living with the realities of Alzheimer’s every day,” said Lisa Levine, Senior Director of Programs for Dementia Alliance of North Carolina. “We’re proud to help support Dr. Cohen’s promising work at UNC, right here in our home state, and to be part of a partnership that brings real hope through science, innovation, and local impact.”
The partnership also includes plans to promote cutting-edge research to the public, engage local experts and scientists in national conversations, and strengthen the pipeline of Alzheimer’s researchers in the state through BrightFocus’ Alzheimer’s Fast Track program and other career development opportunities.
BrightFocus Foundation is a nonprofit organization supporting research and public education to help end Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Learn more at www.brightfocus.org.
Dementia Alliance of North Carolina is dedicated to providing insight, support, and education to individuals and families facing dementia. Our mission is rooted in local impact, ensuring no one in North Carolina faces dementia alone. Learn more at www.dementianc.org.
Media Contacts
Julia Roth
BrightFocus Foundation
(301) 556-9382
jroth@brightfocus.org
Dawn Crawford
Dementia Alliance of North Carolina
(720) 231-1930
dawn@bcdcideas.com
BrightFocus Foundation is a premier global nonprofit funder of research to defeat Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Since its inception more than 50 years ago, BrightFocus and its flagship research programs—Alzheimer’s Disease Research, Macular Degeneration Research, and National Glaucoma Research—has awarded more than $300 million in research grants to scientists around the world, catalyzing thousands of scientific breakthroughs, life-enhancing treatments, and diagnostic tools. We also share the latest research findings, expert information, and resources to empower the millions impacted by these devastating diseases. Learn more at brightfocus.org.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is a public service of BrightFocus Foundation and is not intended to constitute medical advice. Please consult your physician for personalized medical, dietary, and/or exercise advice. Any medications or supplements should only be taken under medical supervision. BrightFocus Foundation does not endorse any medical products or therapies.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
BrightFocus Foundation’s VP of Scientific Affairs helped set national research priorities at the federal Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Dementias Summit, influencing how billions in NIH funding will advance dementia research and care.
New formulation of Leqembi allows weekly at-home injections, reducing the need for hospital visits.
From lifestyle changes that protect memory and cutting‑edge blood tests to promising long‑term treatment results, promising new developments in Alzheimer’s research were unveiled at the 2025 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) in Toronto.
BrightFocus Foundation received a $3.2 million grant from an anonymous foundation to support 12 new Alzheimer’s Disease Research grants.
Report shows that boosting research investment into the wellbeing of adults with Down syndrome would improve their quality-of-life outcomes, reduce caregiving costs, and extend the lifespan of adults with Down syndrome by five years.
Every Donation is a Step Forward in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s
Your donation powers cutting-edge research and helps scientists explore new treatments. Help bring us closer to a cure and provide valuable information to the public.
Donate Today
