Michael J. Fox Foundation Launches Award for Dystonia Research Advancements

The Michael J. Fox Foundation Launches the Bachmann-Strauss Early Career Award

On October 14, 2025, the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (MJFF) announced an exciting new venture: the Bachmann-Strauss Early Career Award for Dystonia Research. This progressive initiative aims to support early-career clinician-researchers determined to delve into the complexities of dystonia, a prevalent yet often overlooked movement disorder.

The newly established award comes as a two-year, $150,000 program designed to foster outstanding research aimed at enhancing the understanding and treatment options for dystonia—a condition affecting approximately 500,000 individuals across North America. Notably, more than 30% of those diagnosed with Parkinson's disease may experience dystonia as either a symptom or a side effect of treatment. This connection spotlights the necessity for comprehensive research into both conditions.

The first recipient of this prestigious award is Dr. Adina Wise, a neurologist affiliated with the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School. Dr. Wise’s research will focus on the neural circuits and genetic factors driving dystonia. Her intentions include the identification of new biomarkers and therapeutic targets to refine treatment strategies and improve early diagnosis, enhancing life quality for those affected by dystonia and Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Wise expressed her gratitude and aspiration in receiving the award, stating, "I am deeply honored to receive the inaugural Bachmann-Strauss Early Career Award for Dystonia Research. This support will enable our team to investigate the neural circuits and genetic factors that drive dystonia, with the goal of identifying new biomarkers and therapeutic targets that can guide earlier diagnosis, refine treatment strategies, and ultimately improve outcomes for people living with dystonia and Parkinson's disease."

Deborah W. Brooks, MJFF Co-Founder and CEO, commended Bonnie and Tom Strauss for their unwavering commitment to aiding families living with dystonia and Parkinson's. She remarked, "Their generosity has opened new doors for progress in this critical research area. Together, with continued support from MJFF, we aim to empower remarkable clinician-scientists to drive further discoveries and enhance treatment modalities that can significantly uplift the quality of life for affected families."

A Legacy in Dystonia Research

Dystonia is characterized by involuntary and often painful muscle contractions. Despite its significant prevalence, awareness and treatment options for dystonia remain inadequate. To tackle this, the collaboration between the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Bachmann-Strauss Dystonia and Parkinson Foundation has been instrumental. Since their alliance began in 2014, the foundations have worked together to bolster research initiatives, create awareness, and enhance treatment methodologies for dystonia.

Previously, the organizations established the Bachmann-Strauss Prize for Excellence in Dystonia Research, awarded from 2015 to 2020, which celebrated researchers making significant contributions in the field. The introduction of the Early Career Award signals a strategic pivot to focus on virgin researchers. Bonnie Strauss of MJFF articulated this shift, stating, "We are proud to partner with The Michael J. Fox Foundation to support Dr. Wise, who will carry this mission forward."

Through structured milestones and tailored support systems, the award facilitates regular engagement between the recipient and MJFF, thereby ensuring accountability and measurable progress in their research initiatives.

The need for more research is of paramount importance since dystonia affects a considerable segment of the population. Moreover, as dystonia often coexists with Parkinson's disease, continued exploration into its underlying mechanisms may accelerate advancements in diagnosis and treatment. By investing in early-career researchers, the Michael J. Fox Foundation is paving the way for future advancements in this significant health area.

For ongoing updates and resources related to Parkinson's disease and dystonia research, individuals and families are encouraged to visit www.michaeljfox.org.

Conclusion

The launch of the Bachmann-Strauss Early Career Award not only represents a vital step in dystonia research but also signifies MJFF’s commitment to pioneering new pathways that future investigators will take. As promising researchers like Dr. Wise embark on their missions to unravel the complexities of dystonia, the potential for groundbreaking discoveries in this realm is promising. The hope is that enhanced understanding will lead to better diagnostic and treatment options, ultimately improving the lives of those grappling with these disorders.