Neurological

Brain and nervous system disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis, are complex and debilitating illnesses.

Mayo Clinic neurologists and neuroscientists, in collaboration with Mayo physicians and scientists from other disciplines, are relentlessly searching for ways to improve diagnostic methods, identify high-risk individuals and more effectively treat — and even prevent — these diseases.

At Mayo Clinic's campus in Florida, a strong cadre of neuroscientists is studying the genetics of many age-related neurodegenerative conditions — not only Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, but also frontotemporal dementia and Lewy body dementia.

Due in part to a $1 million philanthropic gift in early 2011, these researchers will be able to continue their work in Lewy body dementia for the next four years. Research in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's at Mayo is also recognized and bolstered by two significant National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants.

Mayo's campus in Florida is designated by NIH as a Morris K. Udall Center of Excellence for Parkinson's Disease Research, and the NIH also supports the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, which is based jointly at the Minnesota and Florida campuses.

Progress in multiple sclerosis and related diseases, such as neuromyelitis optica, is accelerated by the Center for Multiple Sclerosis and Central Nervous System Demyelinating Diseases.

The center pulls together experts from every corner of Mayo Clinic — neurologists, immunologists, geneticists and countless others — to tackle these disorders and provide hope and solutions for the more than 1,500 new patients with multiple sclerosis and other demyelinating diseases that seek answers at Mayo each year.

Your contribution can help Mayo Clinic improve the lives of people with neurodegenerative diseases and other neurological conditions. Please give online or call 800-297-1185 (toll-free) to discuss your gift today.