Big Moves in Brain Science: Universities Step Up Their Game

Four universities have launched significant new projects thanks to generous donations. These initiatives are crucial as brain diseases like Alzheimer's become more prevalent, impacting individuals and the economy.

University of California San Francisco

• Donation: $100 million
• Recipient: Memory and Aging Center, now named the Edward and Pearl Fein Memory and Aging Center
• Focus: Alzheimer's research, new tests, and treatments
• Donor: Edward Fein, former stockbroker, and his wife

Rice University

• Initiative: Rice Brain Institute
• Focus: Brain injuries, neurodegenerative diseases, and mental illness
• Collaboration: Researchers from various fields

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

• Initiative: RareNet
• Focus: Rare brain disorders
• Donors: Alumni Ana Méndez and Rajeev Jayavant
• Initial Projects: Rett syndrome and prion disease

University of Cincinnati

• Donation: $20 million
• Recipient: Gardner Neuroscience Institute
• Focus: Memory disorders and Alzheimer's Disease Research Center
• Donor: James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Foundation

These new initiatives highlight the growing commitment of universities to brain research, offering hope for better treatments and a deeper understanding of brain diseases.