Alzheimer’s research funding pause leaves the University of Washington’s key program facing an uncertain future.
Federal funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is in limbo. Without it, researchers fear progress could stall. The NIH has funded the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) at UW since 1985. That grant is now paused.
The center preserves more than 4,000 brains. The center receives around 200 new donations each year. The bank supplies tissue to scientists studying Alzheimer’s across the globe.
The $15 million renewal has been delayed. And time is running out.
Andrea’s Story
Andrea Gilbert, 79, hoped her brain would one day help find a cure. She lives with Alzheimer’s. In 2023, she agreed to donate her brain for science.
She’s one of 450 people in a long-term study. The researchers track each participant until their death. Then their brain is studied. Without funding, they may cut that study short.
Andrea receives infusions of lecanemab, a drug that slows Alzheimer’s. Harborview Medical Center gives her top-tier care. But the center depends on NIH grants.
Andrea said, “The national standard should be this kind of care.” “Losing it would be tragic.”
A Broader Crisis
Across the U.S., research grants have stalled. Legal filings say that delays or cancellations have affected thousands. Topics affected include Alzheimer’s, HIV, and even chlamydia prevention.
Some experts blame political bias. The Trump administration has slashed grants on topics it reportedly disfavors—like gender identity and diversity.
The University of Washington has felt the impact especially hard. Court records show more than 600 proposals are in limbo. Twelve grants have already been cut.
The university expects major fallout. Graduate admissions may drop by up to 50%. A hiring freeze is underway. Furloughs and layoffs loom.
The Human Cost
Researchers and patients are feeling the pressure. Dr. Thomas Grabowski, who leads the ADRC, said most of the center’s funding comes from NIH. Without it, core studies could be lost.
He’s worried the research pipeline will dry up. “We’re on shaky ground,” he said.
Dr. Dirk Keene runs the brain bank. He vowed to continue honoring donors’ gifts. “I’ll beg, I’ll borrow. I won’t steal, but I’ll do what I have to.”
A Legal Fight
The State of Washington and 15 others are suing the federal government. They argue the grant freeze is political and unlawful. A judge will hear arguments in May.
Until then, researchers wait—and hope.
For Andrea, each infusion is a reminder of what’s at stake. “It feels like a precarious position,” she said. “But I’m lucky to have support.”
Source: NBC News
