The University of Texas (UT) Southwestern Medical Center recently launched the new Texas Institute for Brain Injury and Repair, which is a state-funded initiative to promote innovative research and education. According to a UT Southwestern news release, the goal of the new institute is to accelerate translation into better diagnosis and revolutionizing care for millions of people who suffer brain injuries annually. The recent launch event brought together representatives from the National Football League (NFL), state government leaders, and UT Southwestern supporters.
The UT Southwestern news release notes that the Institute will include scientists focused on improving the understanding of brain damage at the molecular and cellular level in addition to those seeking to identify new therapeutic opportunities, which could eventually be delivered in clinical care settings. The new institute is a collaborative initiative involving local and national organizations, such as the National Institutes of Health, and is a component of the Harold and Annette Simmons Comprehensive Center for Research and Treatment in Brain and Neurological Disorders.
As indicated on the UT Southwestern news release, the Texas Institute for Brain Injury and Repair will focus on three key areas: innovative basic science and clinical translation research; state-of-the-art brain imaging, supported by UT Southwestern’s Advanced Imaging Research Center, which also receives state support; and community education and prevention strategies. Mark Goldberg, MD, says, “The depth of our expertise across the spectrum of pediatric and adult neurosciences will allow us to do things that other big centers don’t even think about doing.”
Goldberg adds, “We will draw on the great strengths of UT Southwestern in applying scientific rigor and commitment to improve patient care, and to addressing the most challenging medical needs.”
Daniel K. Podolsky, MD, president of UT Southwestern, says, “This Institute reflects an effort unprecedented in its commitment to address the devastating effects of brain injury. The initiative involves the entire community, from patients and parents to scientists and caregivers.”
Source: UT Southwestern Medical Center
