#United States #New York #Eli Lilly #Daniel Skovronsky #Goodes Prize

Daniel M. Skovronsky Honored with the 2025 Melvin R. Goodes Prize

The Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) has announced that Dr. Daniel M. Skovronsky, the Chief Scientific Officer at Eli Lilly and President of Lilly Research Labs, will receive the 2025 Melvin R. Goodes Prize. This prestigious award, often referred to as the Nobel Prize of Alzheimer's research, will be presented to him during the inaugural ADDF Scientific Summit on March 5, 2025. This recognition is in light of his groundbreaking work in the development of diagnostic tests pivotal for Alzheimer's disease treatment.

A Trailblazer in Alzheimer's Diagnostics

Dr. Skovronsky's significant contributions include pioneering the Amyvid PET scan—the very first FDA-approved diagnostic test for Alzheimer's disease. This innovation has transformed how clinicians can diagnose and assess the disease's progression. His work has not only enhanced the ability to detect Alzheimer's but has also facilitated the approval of several disease-modifying therapies, including Lilly’s Kisunla.

The Melvin R. Goodes Prize has been established to honor scientists who have made exceptional contributions to the Alzheimer's field, and Dr. Skovronsky’s achievements encapsulate this mission. Howard Fillit, MD, co-founder and Chief Science Officer at the ADDF, emphasized Dr. Skovronsky’s role in revolutionizing diagnostic tools, stating, “Dan is the epitome of a Goodes Prize awardee, a leading scientist who has advanced innovative and bold ideas to transform how we diagnose and develop new treatments for Alzheimer's.”

Innovative Diagnostic Methods

Dr. Skovronsky’s influence extends beyond just the Amyvid PET scan. He has also been instrumental in the development of the Tauvid PET scan, a groundbreaking test for detecting tau proteins in the brain—an essential element in understanding Alzheimer's pathology. Moreover, he has played a key role in pioneering a blood test for p-tau217, a promising biomarker for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

All these advancements have significantly contributed to the regulatory approvals of vital Alzheimer’s medications, paving the way for new treatment avenues that target the disease more effectively. With strong support from the ADDF, Dr. Skovronsky’s research has been a catalyst for recent developments in the Alzheimer's drug landscape, including the approvals of Aduhelm in 2021 and Leqembi in 2023.

A Commitment to Advancing Alzheimer's Research

The ADDF’s commitment to fostering such innovative research reflects the organization’s ongoing dedication to accelerating drug development for Alzheimer’s. Dr. Skovronsky shared his vision for the future of Alzheimer's treatment: “Through early detection and early intervention, we can someday make Alzheimer's a preventable disease.” His receipt of the Goodes Prize stands as a testament to his longstanding partnership with the ADDF, spanning over two decades, and his unwavering dedication to transforming Alzheimer’s diagnostics and therapeutics.

Honoring a Legacy

The Goodes Prize was established in memory of Melvin R. Goodes, the former CEO of Warner-Lambert Company, who became a pivotal advocate for Alzheimer’s research after his diagnosis with the disease. The award seeks to recognize researchers whose efforts have significantly advanced our understanding of Alzheimer’s and laid the groundwork for future breakthroughs. Previous recipients have notably influenced the direction of Alzheimer's research, enhancing collaborative efforts across academia, industry, and philanthropy.

The Upcoming Scientific Summit

The 11th annual Goodes Prize will be awarded at 6:00 PM ET during the ADDF Scientific Summit and will include an engaging keynote address from Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent and bestselling author. The summit will bring together nine distinguished scientists, including past recipients of the Goodes Prize, to discuss the latest advancements in therapeutics, biomarkers, and future prospects in the field of Alzheimer's research.

With pioneering scientists like Dr. Skovronsky taking center stage, the future of Alzheimer’s research looks promising as the ADDF continues to push the envelope in drug development, nurturing innovations that hold the potential for effective treatments and ultimately a cure for this devastating disease.

For more information on Dr. Skovronsky’s groundbreaking work and the ADDF’s ongoing efforts, please visit ADDF’s official website.