iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 3h

🔬 🚀 Every breakthrough begins with a bold idea. This year, BrightFocus supported 182 research grants across 17 countries, advancing the fight against Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Explore: BrightFocus.org/AnnualReport

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 17/09/2026

On Sept 30, Dr. Daisy Shu, a BrightFocus Macular Degeneration Research grant recipient, will share what she’s learning about a new drug delivery approach for wet age-related macular degeneration that could ease the burden of frequent eye injections. Sign up: BrightFocus.org/MacularChats

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Reposted by BrightFocus Foundation

International Society for Molecular Neurodegeneration @ismnd.bsky.social · 19/08/2026

🚨 DON'T MISS OUT! 🚨 There’s less than one week until the ISMND 2026 Early Bird Registration deadline! 💰 Save on registration by securing the Early Bird rate by August 24. We can’t wait to welcome you to Hong Kong! 🔗 Register now: ismnd2026.org

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

Since 1999, our Macular Degeneration Research program has funded bold ideas from scientists around the world. Check out our July Macular Chat episode, where Dr. Diane Bovenkamp and Dr. Jimmy Liu explain our 360-degree approach and break down this year's projects. 🔗 Listen: bit.ly/4qpCCwT

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

🧠 How much dementia risk is within our control? More than you might think. Research suggests that up to 45% of dementia cases may be prevented or delayed by addressing modifiable risk factors. Dr. Zaldy Tan breaks it down on Aug 20 at 1 pm ET. Visit BrightFocus.org/ADZoom to register.

"Reducing Dementia Risk: What New Research Reveals." The event is scheduled for August 20 at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT. It features Zaldy S. Tan, MD, MPH, who is affiliated with Cedars‑Sinai Medical Center and the David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA. The poster has a circular photo of Zaldy S. Tan. Logos for the BrightFocus Foundation and Alzheimer's Disease Research are included at the bottom, with a note about funding from Biogen, Lilly, and Genentech.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 19/07/2026

BrightFocus Foundation’s next Zoom In on Dementia & Alzheimer’s episode will feature neurologist Dr. James E. Galvin to discuss Lewy body dementia. Topics include: Early warning signs, how it differs from Alzheimer’s, current and emerging treatment options & more. Register: bit.ly/4r1ycw4

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 16/07/2026

BrightFocus Foundation's National Glaucoma Research has just awarded 16 new research grants totaling $2.3 million to support scientists dedicated to preventing, treating, and curing glaucoma. Meet this exceptional group of vision science innovators moving us closer to a cure: bit.ly/3TkVC2V

This image features a collage of 14 individual headshots of diverse people with varying backgrounds, set on a white background. Below the photos, there is text that reads, "Our 2026 grantees are advancing breakthroughs in glaucoma."

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

The FDA just approved Leqembi® as an at-home injection starting at the beginning of treatment. This means early-stage Alzheimer's treatment can now begin and continue outside the clinic. Fewer trips, more flexibility, same safety/efficacy profile as IV infusions. Read more: bit.ly/4w5KzJl

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

7.2 million Americans over 65 are living with Alzheimer's, and the disease starts affecting the brain long before symptoms show. Early detection gives people and families more options. If you or someone you love is experiencing memory changes, talk to a doctor. Learn more: bit.ly/4pEmzLj

This image is an informational graphic with the title "Did you know?" It explains the difference between forgetting where keys are placed and, in Alzheimer's disease, forgetting what keys are for. The graphic encourages knowing the signs of Alzheimer's.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

Proud to partner with Alzheimer's Los Angeles to fund teams at UCLA & USC who are using AI to: → Track ‘jumping genes’ linked to disease & explore RNA therapies → Design drug candidates to block toxic tau protein buildup Explore the research: LINK Find out more. ↘️

brightfocus.org

BrightFocus Foundation, Alzheimer's LA Fund New AI-Driven Alzheimer's Research

Early-stage pilot grants aim to accelerate innovation and collaboration in Southern California.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 24/06/2026

Agitation is a common and difficult symptom of Alzheimer's, affecting the entire family. Dr. Brent Forester joins us to explain what's behind it and how it can look different from person to person. Watch live tomorrow at 1 p.m. ⤵️ www.youtube.com/live/KpEKCc33Ovc

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Agitation in Alzheimer’s Dementia

YouTube video by BrightFocus Foundation

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 13/06/2026

Did you know your daily habits could be protecting your eyes without you even realizing it? Dr. Joshua Dunaief breaks down exactly what to eat, actions to take, and what to avoid. Watch more: bit.ly/4vPIGQM

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 11/06/2026

🎙️ Introducing Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s—a new podcast from BrightFocus Foundation’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research program. Listen to our first episodes and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts: bit.ly/3PSMzoM.

Graphic featuring text 'Let's Talk Alzheimer's with Nancy Keach', featuring a person smiling in the lower right corner. The background includes words 'Research', 'Diagnosis', 'Answers', along with the logos for BrightFocus Foundation and Alzheimer’s Disease Research."

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 13/05/2026

In recognition of Healthy Vision Month, Amy D. Zhang, MD, of the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center joins our Glaucoma Chat to discuss what scientists are learning about nutrients, caffeine, alcohol, and eye health. Live at 1 pm ET: BrightFocus.org/livechatNGR

Flyer for a Glaucoma Chats event titled 'Eating Right for Glaucoma: Everyday Choices That Matter.' Hosted by BrightFocus Foundation and the American Glaucoma Society. The event is on Wednesday, May 13, at 1 pm Eastern. Features Amy D. Zhang, MD, Associate Clinical Professor and Director at University of Michigan, Kellogg Eye Center. Includes a portrait of Dr. Zhang.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

Nearly 1 in 3 people who take corticosteroids experience elevated eye pressure, a major glaucoma risk factor. BrightFocus-funded scientist Daniel Stamer, PhD, is zeroing in on the gene that may be behind it. 🔎

brightfocus.org

Understanding the Causes of Steroid-Induced Glaucoma

A commonly used medication is linked to increased risk of glaucoma. A BrightFocus National Glaucoma Research-funded scientist is trying to understand why.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 28/04/2026

Tomorrow's Macular Chat will stream live at 1:00 p.m. ET! Kapil Bharti, PhD, will join us to explore whether cell therapy could one day repair or replace damaged retinal cells in macular degeneration and what the science looks like right now. Listen live. ↘️ BrightFocus.org/livechatMDR

brightfocus.org

Macular Chats - Live Audio Stream

Tune into live audio sessions with vision experts discussing macular degeneration care, treatment, and patient questions.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 14/04/2026

Can TV be genuinely supportive for someone living with dementia? On April 23, Allyson Schrier joins us to share how research following her experience caring for her husband with dementia led her to create Zinnia TV, a streaming service designed to engage people living with memory loss. Register ↘️

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Zoom In on Dementia & Alzheimer's

Join us for live, interactive conversations with world-class expert scientists to discuss research, treatments, and practical advice for managing Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 08/04/2026

Glaucoma doesn’t impact all communities equally. Dr. Victoria Tseng joins us live today, April 8 at 1pm ET, to discuss the latest research on glaucoma disparities, cultural and healthcare barriers, and the importance of early screening to help protect vision. Listen now: BrightFocus.org/livechatNGR

Graphic for an event titled "Understanding Glaucoma’s Disproportionate Impact on Black & Hispanic Communities." It is part of "Glaucoma Chats," presented by the BrightFocus Foundation and the American Glaucoma Society. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, April 8 at 1 pm Eastern. The flyer features a photo of Victoria L. Tseng, MD, PhD, who is an Assistant Professor in Residence at the UCLA Department of Ophthalmology.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 07/04/2026

📸: A 3D rendering of a retinal ganglion cell—the neurons that carry visual signals from your eye to your brain. Dr. Rob Nickells, a BrightFocus Foundation National Glaucoma Research grant recipient, is studying how to protect these cells from glaucoma. bit.ly/4tGjBHK

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 04/04/2026

Scientists are developing a new pill-based Alzheimer’s treatment that targets a different pathway than the medications already on the market. Read about this and more top Alzheimer's headlines in our Breaking News Dispatch, supported by sponsorship funding from Lilly: bit.ly/41c8HfG.

A person holds a pill in their open hand. The text on the image reads: "New Oral Alzheimer’s Therapy Shows Therapeutic Benefit, Time Saved."

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 02/04/2026

Join us today as Dr. Michael Detke shares details about the SPRING trial studying an investigational oral drug aimed at reducing brain damage linked to the gum‑disease bacteria P. gingivalis. We'll also outline who may qualify & what participation looks like. youtube.com/live/y2o7wtfOSX8

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The SPRING Trial: Targeting Gum Bacteria in Alzheimer's

Emerging science suggests that the bacteria P. gingivalis--which is associated with gum disease--may play a role in Alzheimer's disease. In this episode, Dr. Michael J. Detke of Lighthouse Pharma explains the SPRING clinical trial and how the investigat...

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 31/03/2026

In recognition of National Minority Health Month, Dr. Victoria Tseng joins Glaucoma Chats on April 8 to discuss the latest research on glaucoma disparities, cultural and healthcare barriers, and why early screening is critical to protecting vision. Register to ask your questions live. ↘️

brightfocus.org

Register for Glaucoma Chats Join us for a series of free monthly telephone discussions from National Glaucoma Research, a program of BrightFocus Foundation, featuring glaucoma specialists and other eye care professionals who discuss various aspects of l...

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 28/03/2026

#BreakingNews from #ADPD2026: New treatment approaches to address unmet needs for people living with Alzheimer’s. Read about promising data on a pill-based treatment, risk-reducing lifestyle changes effective a decade later, and other top stories: bit.ly/4bRwFSi

Colorful illustration of a silhouette with a brain outline against a vibrant background. "Breaking News Dispatch: Alzheimer’s Oral Therapies, Prevention Strategies, and Targeted Treatments Emerge."

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 26/03/2026

Join today’s episode of Zoom In on Dementia & Alzheimer’s to explore the early #Alzheimers symptoms to watch for, other medical issues that may look like dementia, and why early conversations with your doctor matter. Watch live at 1 p.m. today: www.youtube.com/live/LF1arJTrzes

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Is It Alzheimer’s? Recognizing Early Signs & Symptoms

YouTube video by BrightFocus Foundation

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 25/03/2026

Top questions from people living with macular degeneration will be answered live today at 1 p.m. ET! Join BrightFocus Foundation's #MacularChat for a real-time Q&A with ophthalmologist Dr. Joshua Dunaief. 🔗 Listen live now: BrightFocus.org/livechatMDR

brightfocus.org

Macular Chats - Live Audio Stream

Tune into live audio sessions with vision experts discussing macular degeneration care, treatment, and patient questions.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 18/03/2026

We're hosting an interactive Macular Chat on March 25 where we'll answer your top questions about age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We’ll cover everything from the different types of AMD to nutrition, supplements, daily living tips, and treatment options. Register now: bit.ly/4rxnNHr

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Macular Chats - Live Audio Stream

Tune into live audio sessions with vision experts discussing macular degeneration care, treatment, and patient questions.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 12/03/2026

Look inside the hippocampus: where memories are made! The blue shows myelin, a protective coating on brain "wires" (axons) that speeds up messages between neurons. Dr. Isabelle Aubert is developing a therapy using noninvasive ultrasound waves that may boost myelin production. bit.ly/4rkP9Bk

Myelinated axons in the hippocampus-1 by Rubio Atonal, Luis Fernando

Image of the hippocampus, a part of the brain critical to learning and memory and affected by Alzheimer’s disease. The blue colour highlights the myelin on individual axons and axonal tracts or bundles. In the brain, each neuronal cell has an axon. The axon is responsible for carrying messages from a neuron to the next cell. Myelin is a coat that insulates those axons, allowing neurons to maintain the speed of message conduction across large distances. In Alzheimer’s disease, the myelin coat is lost. Our research aims to develop strategies to promote, repair and maintain the axonal myelination process.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 11/03/2026

Join Dr. Inas Aboobakar of Mass. Eye and Ear today, March 11 at 1pm ET, as she explains the role of genetics and family history in glaucoma as well as what and when to share with relatives, and how to encourage glaucoma eye exams. 🎧 Listen live: bit.ly/4nz3KGw

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 11/03/2026

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 10/03/2026

On March 26, neurologist Dr. Sharon Cohen joins us to walk through the early signs of Alzheimer's, the conditions that can look like dementia but aren't, and how to have a productive conversation with your doctor. Bring your questions. Register to join live: bit.ly/4qhsHsO

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Learn about Alzheimer's and dementia treatments, risk reduction, and more during this free virtual discussion series with world-class expert research scientists.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 05/03/2026

In 2025, 182 clinical trials evaluated 138 experimental drugs, reflecting real momentum in how scientists understand the biology, genetics, and biomarkers driving this disease. Learn how that progress is translating into new ways to treat the disease. 🔴 WATCH LIVE TODAY: bit.ly/4aR3j7l

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Alzheimer’s Clinical Trials 2026: An Insider’s Look with Dr. Jeffrey Cummings

YouTube video by BrightFocus Foundation

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 04/03/2026

Family history is one of the strongest risk factors for glaucoma. Dr. Inas Aboobakar joins Glaucoma Chats to explain the role of genetics and family history in glaucoma, what and when to share with relatives, and how to encourage glaucoma eye exams. Register: bit.ly/4u7l1Lh

The image is a promotional banner for "Glaucoma Chats," featuring Inas F. Aboobakar, MD. It includes text: "Discussing Glaucoma With Your Family," scheduled for Wednesday, March 11, 1 pm Eastern.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 27/02/2026

From disease-modifying therapies and oral pills to non-pharmacological options, the Alzheimer’s treatment pipeline includes a wider range of approaches than ever before. Read about what’s to come in 2026 and beyond: bit.ly/4aMpGcS.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 26/02/2026

Check out these stunning brain cells derived from a person with Alzheimer’s disease. • Green = Young • Red = Mature Dr. Josephy Herdy is using these stem cells to study how to stop brain inflammation in Alzheimer’s disease. Explore the research: bit.ly/3OqvJfz

Induced neurons derived from an Alzheimer’s Disease patient. Green: Tuj, Red: NeuN.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 23/02/2026

Early-stage AMD often has no symptoms. By the time people notice vision changes, the disease may have already progressed. That's why Paul, a stand-up comedian living with AMD, recommends comprehensive eye exams for everyone over 40, even if your vision seems fine. bit.ly/49L8K7n.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 19/02/2026

🧬 LIVE today at 1 p.m. ET: Dr. Eric M. Reiman joins us to discuss APOE4, genetic testing, and what it means for your Alzheimer's risk. We'll also discuss treatments, potential side effects, and clinical research opportunities. Your questions welcome! ↘️ www.youtube.com/live/XDRd-MRpDRY

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Understanding Your APOE Status: Genetics and Alzheimer’s Risk

YouTube video by BrightFocus Foundation

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 15/02/2026

Could we prevent Alzheimer's before memory loss begins? Dr. Joshua Grill explains how researchers are exploring early treatment to slow or stop brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease in people at higher risk. Learn more about this promising area of research ➡️ bit.ly/4k3QPMP.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 14/02/2026

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss, yet many people don't know they have it until irreversible vision loss occurs. This #AMDAwarenessMonth, learn about the importance of regular eye exams, symptoms, risk factors & the latest research: bit.ly/4tzVDO1.

Did you know? As many as 20 million U.S. adults aged 40 and older are living with some form of AMD.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 07/02/2026

Reading a text message, recognizing a grandchild's face, navigating a familiar route: these ordinary acts rely on central vision. For nearly 20 million Americans, age-related macular degeneration puts all of that at risk. But early detection offers hope. Learn more: bit.ly/4bD2WOG.

Image with text on a dark blue background. The text states: "FACT: Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in Americans 65 and older, causing irreversible damage that affects reading, driving, and recognizing faces."

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 04/02/2026

Breaking News: On Feb 3, Congress passed, and the President signed into law, the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bill providing critical federal funding for the NIH, protecting brain and eye research. Read more. bit.ly/46qFBvV

brightfocus.org

BrightFocus Statement on Bipartisan Action to Protect Brain and Eye Research

BrightFocus Foundation supports the bipartisan appropriations bill for fiscal year 2026, which provides critical federal funding for brain and eye research.

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 28/01/2026

You wouldn't skip your other wellness appointments—so why skip eye exams? Cynthia reminds us that protecting our vision deserves the same priority we give to other aspects of self-care. Watch her story. ⬇️ Get the facts about glaucoma this #GlaucomaAwarenessMonth: www.stopglaucoma.org

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 27/01/2026

TOMORROW: Learn how retinal prostheses are designed to restore vision—not just slow its loss. Join us Wed, Jan 28 at 1 pm ET to explore the PRIMA implant and other breakthrough technologies currently in production. Watch live: bit.ly/4qJtjXX

Graphic for a Macular Chat titled: Can Retinal Implants Restore Vision?

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 22/01/2026

CRISPR in action! The healthy cells (left) & disease-modified cells (right) create a 'mosaic' pattern, typical of gene editing. Dr. Brittany Carr, BrightFocus Foundation Macular Degeneration Research grantee, is using this technique to build more precise disease models. bit.ly/3YKpMMC

This is an eye from a frog that was treated with CRISPR. Because CRISPR mutations that cause gene knockdown are random, we can sometimes get mosaicism, where some cells are healthy, and then the cells beside them are mutants. This is an excellent example of mosaicism, where some photoreceptors are healthy (left side), and others are mutants (right side).

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 15/01/2026

Until recently, there were no Alzheimer's drugs that targeted the underlying causes of the disease. Now there are two. On Jan 22, hear from a leading neurologist about Leqembi and Kisunla—how they work, who's eligible, and what you need to know. Register: bit.ly/4qhsHsO

Graphic for Zoom In on Dementia & Alzheimer's

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 14/01/2026

Glaucoma doesn’t just affect older adults. It can affect anyone at any age. Hillary explains why everyone, not just individuals with known risk factors, can benefit from regular eye exams to spot the earliest signs of glaucoma and other eye diseases. Learn more at: www.stopglaucoma.org

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 13/01/2026

Join tomorrow's Glaucoma Chat with Dr. Mehul Nagarsheth, who will break down how early diagnosis opens the door to modern, less invasive treatment options. 🎧 Listen live tomorrow, Jan. 14 at 1 p.m. ET: bit.ly/4qFdiBH

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 10/01/2026

Too many people see multiple specialists before receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, losing precious time. BrightFocus Foundation supports the Alzheimer’s Policy Working Group’s initiative to provide actionable policy guidance to accelerate diagnosis and improve care. Read the report: alzpolicy.org

alzpolicy.org

Alzheimers Policy Working Group

The idea of losing your mental abilities, your independence, your sense of self, is hard to accept. No one wants to believe their memories are slipping away, or that they will become a burden to their loved ones. And so most people won't recognize the s...

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 08/01/2026

“I watched my grandfather’s sharp, witty mind fade away with dementia. That experience drives me to search for answers so other families don’t feel the same helplessness.” — Joe Herdy, PhD, BrightFocus Foundation Alzheimer's Disease Research grant recipient. Read more: bit.ly/4jAd4d1

BrightFocus Foundation Alzheimer’s Disease Research grant recipient Joe Herdy, PhD

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BrightFocus Foundation @brightfocus.bsky.social · 07/01/2026

Glaucoma treatment has come a long way. Register for our Jan. 14 Glaucoma Chat where Dr. Mehul Nagarsheth will break down how diagnosing glaucoma earlier gives you access to modern, less invasive treatments. 🔗 Register today and ask your questions live. bit.ly/3NyIYub

brightfocus.org

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