The Parkinson’s Foundation has announced 33 grants totaling $5.7 million to accelerate Parkinson’s disease (PD) research. 

The grants will help scientists conducting innovative studies across various aspects of PD to advance new therapies, treatments, and ultimately a cure for the 10 million people worldwide living with the debilitating neurological disease.

The Stanley Fahn Junior Faculty Award, which acts as a bridge to ensure that independent, early-career scientists stay in the PD research field by providing up to $300,000 over three years, was awarded to Sarah Shahmoradian of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She will use the award to study the cellular anatomy of a key Parkinson’s protein, called alpha-synuclein (aSyn), using 3D electron tomography in its natural state in the brain. 

“The pioneering work of most Nobel Prize recipients occurred before the age of 40, and young scientists are likely to play a significant role in groundbreaking PD discoveries. Compared to the National Institutes of Health, our support doubles the number of early career researchers dedicating their careers to PD,” said Parkinson Foundation chief scientific officer James Beck. “Established investigators also bring keen insight to understanding PD, and our funding drives the pursuit of novel ideas that may lead to PD breakthroughs.” 

For a complete list of 2022 recipients, see the Parkinson’s Foundation website. 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/gorodenkoff)