Neuroscientists Debut Series on Research Accomplishments; Show How Funding Will Lead to Future Research Successes

For immediate release.

NR-05-04 (3/4/04). For more information, please contact the Society at (202) 962-4000.

NEUROSCIENTISTS DEBUT SERIES ON RESEARCH ACCOMPLISHMENTS; SHOW HOW FUNDING WILL LEAD TO FUTURE RESEARCH SUCCESSES

WASHINGTON, DC March 8, 2004 - The Society for Neuroscience has released the first four issues in its new publication series, titled Brain Research Success Stories. The two-sided newsletters highlight how biomedical research has improved health and quality of life for Americans, and why continued funding is critical.

The newsletters describe recent health improvements due to advances in neuroscience research supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) with support from Congress. They also describe what further gains can be made for patients with sufficient future funding for biomedical research.

"Brain and spinal cord research is on the cutting edge of technology," says Anne Young, president of the Society for Neuroscience. "This research has translated into direct benefits for millions of Americans; however, future progress is dependent on continued strong federal support for research."

The first four published topics address stroke, depression, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These issues will be sent to the Capitol Hill offices of representatives, senators, and key committee staffers during Brain Awareness Week, March 15-21.

Topics for success stories are selected by a rigorous review and vetting process, and the final story undergoes a critical review by scientific experts in specific topic areas. Other topics soon to be published include Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, memory impairment, spinal cord injury, dyslexia, and insomnia.

"Brain Research Success Stories crystallize the positive accomplishments of neuroscience research and speak to what more can be accomplished with additional funding," says Mahlon DeLong, director of the Neuroscience Center at Emory University and chair of the Society's Government and Public Affairs Committee.

The publications are available by e-mailing the Society for Neuroscience at: brss@sfn.org or by calling (202) 962-4000. They may also be downloaded from the SfN Web site at: www.sfn.org/brss.

The Society for Neuroscience is an organization of more than 34,000 basic scientists and clinicians who study the brain and nervous system.