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Advancing Research on Neurodegenerative Diseases

In a significant step towards enhancing understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, CurePSP has announced the awarding of its latest Pathway and Pipeline Grants. With a total of approximately $400,000 allocated, this funding initiative aims to support innovative research focusing on progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration (CBD). The grants received a generous contribution of $200,000 from the Rainwater Charitable Foundation (RCF), known for being one of the leading independent supporters of tauopathy research.

Details on Grant Recipients

Three noteworthy projects have been selected for the Pathway Grants:

• - Defining the Role of Microglial Tau in 4R tauopathies led by Dr. Abhirami Kannan Iyer from Washington University School of Medicine.
• - Elucidation of Apoe-induced glial cell Tau pathology in PSP under the guidance of Dr. Seiji Kaji from Kyoto University.
• - Development of Novel Models to Understand Tau Seeding in PSP and CBD, a project by Dr. Jennifer Rauch at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Additionally, one project has been awarded a Pipeline Grant:

• - Investigating Ddr2 gene downregulation as a novel therapeutic target for PSP and related tauopathies, conducted by Dr. Yuhao (Harry) Min from the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville.

The Significance of these Grants

CurePSP’s Executive Director and Chief Science Officer, Dr. Kristophe Diaz, expressed excitement about the impact these grants will have. "We are thrilled to support these remarkable projects with the Rainwater Charitable Foundation," he stated. This partnership highlights the essential collaborative efforts among organizations committed to advancing research on the neurobiology of PSP and CBD, as well as translational projects that focus on the discovery of new biomarkers and therapeutics.

CurePSP’s Mission and Future Direction

CurePSP stands at the forefront of raising awareness and funding critical research for PSP, CBD, and multiple system atrophy (MSA). As a nonprofit organization, it plays a vital role as a catalyst for developing new treatments and potential cures for these challenging diseases. Its mission is centered around community support and increasing the quality of life for individuals living with these conditions and their families.

Following the success of this grant cycle, CurePSP encourages early-career scientists and researchers to apply for their upcoming grant opportunities. The next grant application deadline for the Pathway and Pipeline Grants is anticipated in Fall 2025.

To learn more about CurePSP and their innovative research funding, please visit www.curepsp.org.

In summary, CurePSP’s latest funding initiative not only underscores the pressing need for research into tauopathies but also illustrates the growing collaborative network of researchers ready to face the challenges posed by these debilitating diseases. The rise of groundbreaking projects supported by these grants fosters hope for new discoveries and advancements in the understanding and treatment of PSP and CBD.