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Research

Researcher looking into a microscope

BrightFocus is one of America's leading supporters of basic scientific investigations to better understand and find cures for Alzheimer's disease, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. 

Since 1973, we have awarded nearly $200 million1 to scientists seeking new approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of our target diseases. These grants have supported more than 1500 innovative projects and an estimated 5056 scientists who have dedicated their careers to groundbreaking research.

Our funding has enabled promising researchers—talented scientists at universities, hospitals, and medical centers worldwide—to make significant discoveries about these diseases. To date, two have gone on to win Nobel prizes.

Current Research

We are currently supporting a total of 174 research grants:

More in this Section

  • Alzheimer’s Disease Research Program

    The Alzheimer's Disease Research (ADR) program has awarded nearly $120 million to support promising research in fields ranging from molecular biology to genetics to epidemiology.

    David Irwin, MD

  • Macular Degeneration Research Program

    The Macular Degeneration Research (MDR) has awarded more than $26 million to support research into the causes and potential preventions and treatments of macular degeneration disease.

    The lab of Dr. Aparna Lakkaraju

  • National Glaucoma Research Program

    Since the National Glaucoma Research (NGR) program began in 1978, BrightFocus has awarded nearly $33 million to support research projects on the causes and potential prevention and treatment of this disease.

    Michael H Elliott, PhD

  • Scientific Review Committees

    Each BrightFocus program has its own Scientific Review Committee (SRC), composed of established, well-regarded investigators from universities and research institutes worldwide. Learn more about how these committees operate and who serves them.

  • Notable Researchers

    Our researchers work at the forefront of scientific discovery, pursuing innovative treatments, cures, and preventative measures for addressing Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Learn more about our world-class researchers.

  • Molecular Neurodegeneration Journal

    Molecular Neurodegeneration is the official journal of BrightFocus Foundation. Learn more about the peer-reviewed scientific journal and read the latest articles online.

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Join us in the fight to end brain and eye disease

  • 1 in 16 Americans over age 40 has either Alzheimer's, macular degeneration, or glaucoma.

  • BrightFocus has funded more than $206 million in groundbreaking research to eradicate brain and eye disease. 

  • BrightFocus makes innovative science possible around the world—1,532 research projects involving more than 5056 scientists in 24 countries.

  • You can make a difference. 
    Support BrightFocus-funded research to end brain and eye diseases in our lifetime.

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