Major Alzheimer’s disease research centers in the country are facing a $65 million funding gap due to a delay imposed by the Trump administration. At least one center is struggling to retain highly trained staff. Although courts have ruled that a government-wide funding freeze is illegal, the administration has managed to delay research funding by canceling scientific meetings and failing to publish forthcoming meetings in the Federal Register, both of which are legally required.
The funding delays have affected nearly every research field, from pediatric cancer to dementia, as part of a multi-pronged strategy of draconian cuts. The delay has put at least $65 million slated for 14 of the nation’s 35 Alzheimer’s disease research centers in limbo, with funding for all 14 centers expected to run out on April 30th.
Alzheimer’s research is at stake, and the delay has affected nearly every research field. The degenerative condition affects 6.7 million Americans, and diagnoses are expected to double by 2060. Funding for all 14 centers is expected to run out on April 30th. Senators are considering Trump’s nominee to head the NIH, Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, and researchers are now doing damage control as they seek to retain talent.
There have been widespread disruptions in research, and it has been reported that there could be hundreds more cancellations. Grant-making officers have canceled at least 16 active grants, and many researchers are now effectively doing damage control. The administration has also targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, which could threaten Alzheimer’s research.
The Alzheimer’s disease research center at the University of Pittsburgh houses clinical trials, a brain bank of 1,769 brains, PET scans, blood samples, and longitudinal data on 6,000-plus patients. Investment in research gives patients and their loved ones hope that they can fight this disease, but stopping their funding wastes precious time.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/10/alzheimers-research-trump-funding-cuts
