2012-08-03T13:47:30-05:00 2012-03-31 521511275 Raffa PC 1899 L Street NW Suite 900 Washington DC 20036 990 2011-04-01 237337229 American Health Assistance Foundation AMER 3019483244 22512 Gateway Center Drive Clarksburg MD 20871 Stacy Pagos Haller 3019483244 2012-08-01 1 Frank H Smith P00639053 2028225000 2012-08-03 2011 2016-02-24 21:20:13Z Stacy Pagos Haller 22512 Gateway Center Drive Clarksburg MD 20871 33300158 0 X www.ahaf.org X 1973 DC Seeks to eradicate age-related and degenerative diseases. 11 11 49 92 0 0 18261062 22601859 0 0 2575465 696172 706437 1111974 21542964 24410005 5594209 5702962 0 0 3157144 3544993 476168 379676 4771179 11872123 11799045 21099644 21426676 443320 2983329 37750130 39273122 15113621 13573560 22636509 25699562 X The American Health Assistance Foundation seeks to eradicate age-related degenerative diseases by: advancing research seeking causes, prevention, treatment, and cures; promoting positive behaviors to combat these diseases; and facilitating the public's efforts to assist those who are affected. 0 0 9485998 3602962 Alzheimer's Disease Research (ADR)--ADR annually awards peer-reviewed grants to scientists from institutions worldwide who are conducting biomedical and clinical research on Alzheimer's disease. ADR grants fall into three categories. Standard and pilot awards are intended for established researchers, and postdoctoral research fellowships support scientists who are training to assume the responsibilities of directing their first research laboratory. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2012, ADR funded 22 new projects, totaling $3,598,962, and awarded a continuing project an additional $4,000. The projects range from advanced genetic studies that aim to identify inheritable risks for Alzheimer's disease through those designed to create new therapeutic interventions against the disease. Additional information about specific projects is in Schedule I. AHAF continues its partnership with the academic journal "Molecular Neurodegeneration" to develop the publication as the official journal of the American Health Assistance Foundation. It publishes technical papers primarily on topics related to the ADR program. As an "open access" journal, there is no fee for readers, and all content is freely available through its website.ADR awards made national headlines in this fiscal year, including high a visibility report suggesting a role for a previously approved drug in combating Alzheimer's disease. This drug will very soon enter human clinical trials. More details are available in the news updates section of the AHAF.org website.ADR provides information about risk factors, preventive measures, diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle changes for Alzheimer's patients, their families, caregivers, at-risk groups, the media, and the public at large. The program also ensures that target audiences are aware of AHAF-donor-funded Alzheimer's disease research and the latest scientific developments. ADR provides this information through eAlerts, newsletters, social media, informational publications, videos, podcasts, and TV and radio public service announcements (PSAs). Medical and research news updates are routinely posted on the AHAF website and disseminated through print and electronic media.AHAF provides a number of patient education and public information materials in print and PDF formats. Most popular among these publications is "Living with Alzheimer's Disease," a 35-page booklet with information including risk factors and mitigation, causes and treatment of the disease, coping and caregiving strategies, financial and legal planning, and resources for patients and families. Other materials, updated this year, include:1. "Understanding Alzheimer's: It's Not Just Forgetfulness," 2. "Care for the Caregiver: Managing Stress,"3. "Safety and the Older Driver,"4. "Staying Safe: Wandering and the Alzheimer's Patient." 5. 15 fact sheets6. 20 streaming video and audio programsADR publications are available in English and have also been translated by native speakers for Spanish audiences. All new materials are available in PDF on the AHAF website at www.ahaf.org/ADRresources.An ADR PSA, "Understanding this Debilitating Disease," produced in English and Spanish in the prior year, ran nationwide on TV and radio this fiscal year. ADR benefitted from $12,025,766 in donated media services. The informational PSA continues to generate calls, emails, and web visits from people affected by, or interested in, the disease. Members of AHAF's Scientific Affairs division were interviewed for and quoted in several media stories during the year, including Voice of America, Medical Daily, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, and Rochester Post-Bulletin. The ADR newsletter was sent to thousands of constituents three times this year, and information about Alzheimer's disease was included in two editions of the AHAF Insider Report. ADR provided 236 answers to Ask an Expert questions during the year. This question-and-answer forum provides professionally researched answers to questions submitted to AHAF's ADR program. More than 30 eAlerts on Alzheimer's disease were sent to members of ADR's opt-in distribution list. Several messages on Alzheimer's disease were distributed weekly throughout the year on AHAF's social media channels, engaging thousands of followers. ADR mailed awareness-raising materials on Alzheimer's disease to hundreds of thousands of households, with messages focusing on: 1. Symptom recognition and steps the public should take, such as making an appointment with the doctor if any of these symptoms exist.2. Lifestyle choices that promote good health, encouraging readers to take action to reduce the likelihood of the onset of the disease; i.e. exercise your mind by playing board games, cards, and puzzles.3. Research results and treatments available to address Alzheimer's disease. 3024951 1000000 Macular Degeneration Research (MDR)--Through an outreach effort in key trade publications and information distribution at major conferences for eye researchers, MDR encourages junior- and senior-level scientists around the world to apply for its prestigious macular degeneration research grant program. MDR annually offers grants to scientists through a sophisticated peer-review process managed by the MDR Scientific Review Committee. This group of the field's leading scientists bases these decisions on scientific merit using a rigorous evaluation system. During the fiscal year ending March 31, 2012, MDR awarded $1,000,000 in grants to 10 new projects that range from studies to understand the influence of racial identity on increased risk for macular degeneration to those aimed at designing new cell-based therapies to target and eliminates the molecular changes that lead to macular degeneration. Additional details about specific projects are in Schedule I. MDR-funded projects were featured in media articles, including one in which scientists developed a new synthetic form of vitamin A. This product has now been licensed to a pharmaceutical company for clinical trials aimed at providing a treatment for the dry, and currently untreatable, form of macular degeneration. More details on this and other successful programs achieved through MDR funding are available in the news updates section of the AHAF.org website.MDR's Children's Corner for Macular Degeneration (CCMD), a website aimed at teaching children about the degenerative disease through stories, interactive games, and sharing activities, continues to help family members learn about the disease. AHAF created TV and radio PSAs about CCMD in English and Spanish, which aired throughout the year on stations across the country. The campaign received more than 45 million impressions and drove thousands of people to the CCMD website and to call and email AHAF. New educational materials supported this outreach effort. MDR benefitted from $5,788,439 in donated media services. MDR proactively disseminates information to the public directly and via traditional and social media. Other channels include email, newsletters, publications, videos, and podcasts. This includes information on risk factors, preventive measures, the progression of the disease, available medical treatments, suggestions for adapting to low vision, and new research developments. Medical and research news updates on macular degeneration are routinely posted on the AHAF website and distributed to interested audiences.MDR continued to distribute high quality informative materials, including updated editions of "Macular Degeneration: The Essential Facts," the comprehensive booklet "Living with Macular Degeneration," "Safety and the Older Driver," and the "Low Vision Resource List." MDR created a set of nine fact sheets in English and Spanish as well as new streaming media content. The organization now provides a macular degeneration animated video series, donated by Eyemaginations. Three editions of the MDR newsletter were sent to interested constituents by mail and email. All MDR publications are in large print and available in PDF in English and Spanish on the AHAF website at www.ahaf.org/MDRresources. The AHAF Insider Report, which included information about macular degeneration, was distributed twice this year. Answers to 280 Ask an Expert questions on macular degeneration were provided via email and on the AHAF website during the year. More than 20 eAlerts were sent to members of the macular degeneration opt-in distribution list. Each week AHAF distributed a range of messages on macular degeneration using its social media channels, engaging thousands of followers. AHAF's Scientific Affairs division staff members were interviewed for media stories, including serving as the featured expert in several vision-oriented radio programs, which helped increase awareness of the organization and raise its scientific credibility related to eye disease.MDR mailed awareness-raising materials on macular degeneration to tens of thousands of households, with highlighted messages including: 1. Identifying symptoms and recommending steps the public can take, such as getting comprehensive eye exams regularly.2. Lifestyle choices that promote good health and reduce the likelihood of disease, like eating an "eye healthy" diet.3. Current research and the preventive measures that can be taken to help reduce the risk of macular degeneration. 1545057 1100000 National Glaucoma Research (NGR)--NGR grants are available to glaucoma researchers worldwide. NGR places special emphasis on encouraging applications from young scientists and those with cutting-edge ideas. Annual grant applications are peer-reviewed, and recipient selections are based on scientific merit. During the fiscal year ending March 31, 2012, NGR awarded $1,100,000 for 11 new projects that range from examinations of the roots of glaucoma in the brain to studies designed to alleviate the buildup of pressure within the eye, a documented risk factor for glaucoma. Additional details about specific projects are in Schedules F & I.NGR-funded research was recognized by the media this year, including new NGR supported data that suggest a targeted x-ray treatment for protection of nerves from glaucomatous damage. More details are available in the news updates section of the AHAF.org website.The NGR communications outreach program encourages people to take preventive measures (e.g., scheduling regular eye exams), to adhere to medication regimens, and to understand risk factors and symptoms. It also provides information on treatments as well as resources for adjusting to low vision. Regular updates on current glaucoma research and the latest study results are disseminated to the public directly and through the web, email, and social and traditional media. As a curator of critical news in the field, NGR distributed 13 eAlerts to people interested in glaucoma research in this fiscal year. NGR responded to 250 Ask an Expert questions, sending emails directly to the inquirers and posting answers on the website for all to see. Updated versions of two NGR publications--"Essential Facts on Glaucoma" and "Living with Glaucoma"--continue to be in great demand. Other popular publications include "Safety and the Older Driver," the new "Low Vision Resource List," and five glaucoma fact sheets in English and Spanish. All NGR materials are in large print and available in PDF in English and Spanish at www.ahaf.org/NGRresources. The site also features six podcasts and ten videos produced this year as well as a series of seven videos describing glaucoma risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, lifestyle changes, and research. This video series, produced with the MonkeySee network, is available through more than 1500 online outlets as well as the AHAF site and YouTube. AHAF now delivers an animated video series about glaucoma through Eyemaginations. Three editions of the NGR newsletter were mailed to readers during the year and posted to the AHAF website, and information about glaucoma was included in two editions of the AHAF Insider Report. With one of the most active social media followings in the glaucoma field, NGR communicated news and information several times each week via these networking channels. The AHAF PSA titled "You Have Questions; We Have Answers" continued airing this year. Produced in English and Spanish, it ran on TV, radio, and the Internet, raising awareness about glaucoma and generating calls, emails, and web visits. NGR benefitted from $1,231,031 in donated media services. AHAF's Scientific Affairs division staff members were interviewed for media stories, including being the featured expert in several vision-oriented radio programs, which helped increase awareness of the organization and raise its scientific credibility related to eye disease. NGR mailed awareness-raising materials on glaucoma to tens of thousands of households, focusing on: 1. Symptom recognition, urging people to schedule an eye examination for early detection, as symptoms are not always noticed.2. Lifestyle choices that promote good health and steps the public can take to reduce the likelihood of the onset of the disease; i.e. eat an "eye healthy" diet.3. Treatments and medicines to control the disease and any actions that can be taken to assist people living with glaucoma and their families. 14056006 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 223 0 1 49 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 X 11 11 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 AK AL AR AZ CA CT FL GA HI IL KS KY ME MD MA MI MN MS NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC TN UT VA WA WV WI X X David F Marks CPA CMA 3019483244 22512 Gateway Center Drive Clarksburg MD 20871 Brian K Regan PhD 10.00 X X 0 0 0 Grace Frisone 10.00 X X 0 0 0 Nicholas W Raymond 12.00 X X 0 0 0 Michael H Barnett Esq 3.00 X X 0 0 0 Scott Rodgville CPA 3.00 X X 0 0 0 June Kinoshita 5.00 X 0 0 0 Judith Lee 5.00 X 0 0 0 Diane Marcello 3.00 X 0 0 0 Henry Pownall PhD 2.00 X 0 0 0 Jonathan Rice Esq 3.00 X 0 0 0 Eltjo R Ed Schoonveld 5.00 X 0 0 0 Stacy Pagos Haller 55.00 X 285422 0 52426 Donna Callison 45.00 X 162032 0 24794 Guy Eakin Ph D 45.00 X 120636 0 45322 David F Marks CPA CMA 45.00 X 146059 0 39284 Melissa May 45.00 X 134092 0 16550 June Falb 35.00 X 123537 0 8142 971778 0 186518 6 0 1 0 WildeLW Robbins Associates Inc 201 Summer Street Holliston MA 01746 Direct mail consulting 3173768 Quad Graphics Inc 5550 South 108th Street West Allis WI 53214 Mailshop and printing 491583 SCA Direct Inc 11208 Waples Mill Rd Suite 106 Fairfax VA 22030 Direct mail consulting 398440 Blackbaud Inc 2000 Daniel Island Drive Charleston SC 29492 Database management 353349 Tri-State Envelope Corporation 1 Orgler Place Ashland PA 17921 Printing 323448 8 23008 42845 22536006 56792 22601859 515428 515428 266240 266240 563755 42967 520788 520788 520788 9001064 8820320 180744 180744 180744 11659 42845 26866 -15207 -15207 Rental settlement 900099 340137 340137 Other 900099 16 16 340153 24410005 0 0 1808146 5602962 5602962 100000 100000 537258 214121 124839 198298 2232803 1103157 718306 411340 235711 116457 75830 43424 353624 174714 113763 65147 185597 91698 59708 34191 114604 20718 93886 73390 29436 18944 25010 379676 379676 135815 135815 691350 609584 38295 43471 445579 137724 190345 117510 603218 325606 162354 115258 365716 181694 121874 62148 219947 128429 55538 35980 43239 39136 2491 1612 257777 126771 82675 48331 67276 33145 20316 13815 Direct mail postage 3650504 1998724 230749 1421031 Direct mail print/publ. 2636234 1422490 162221 1051523 Direct mail comp./mails 1244891 708208 81761 454922 Direct mail consulting 625045 560283 64762 624460 330949 45019 248492 21426676 14056006 2599491 4771179 X 9160810 5020654 584512 3555644 3151374 3573854 481803 436317 2575645 5583310 316096 239858 134231 18768 90659 180776 11012535 2304600 8884790 8707935 18659162 17214019 2580114 2230062 876256 1088223 37750130 39273122 1003163 711208 11181827 10348020 1310000 841601 1618631 1672731 15113621 13573560 X 10772583 12246014 11773926 13363548 90000 90000 22636509 25699562 37750130 39273122 X 2983329 79724 X 0 1 1 X 0 X 20785323 19950796 21879337 18261062 22601859 103478377 20785323 19950796 21879337 18261062 22601859 103478377 103478377 1716212 1512451 1572008 1443239 1345423 7589333 14798 2303 1132 14 16 18263 111085973 25239 0.93150 0.92800 X Schedule A, Part II, Line 10, Explanation of Other Income: Other revenue RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED 90000 1312 1312 90000 90000 3792 3792 90000 90000 3715 3715 90000 90000 4009 4009 90000 1.00000 1 0 2800000 1147363 3947363 1629400 4533166 1673477 4489089 713350 453913 259437 189256 177210 12046 8707935 Alternative investments - partnership 2230062 F 2230062 Charitable gift annuities 1533318 Rental deposits 25000 Capital lease obligations 114413 1672731 24410005 21426676 2983329 4614 75110 79724 3063053 43465096 4614 19045236 99277 19149127 24315969 135815 -41779 94036 24410005 40402043 19045236 24167 19069403 21332640 135815 -41779 94036 21426676 Description of Intended Use of Endowment Funds: Part V, Line 4: The earnings on this endowment are available for the Alzheimer's Disease Research program and are recorded as temporarily restricted investment income and are released as spent. Description of Uncertain Tax Positions Under FIN 48: Part X: AHAF has adopted the guidance under FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, related to accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. AHAF's management believes that AHAF has no material uncertain tax positions and, accordingly, it will not recognize any liability for unrecognized taxes. Part XI, Line 8 - Other Adjustments: Recoveries of prior year grants 99,277. Change in present value of grants -8,960. Special event net income -15,207. Total to Schedule D, Part XI, Line 8: 75,110. Part XII, Line 4b - Other Adjustments: Depreciation on rental property -41,779. Part XIII, Line 2d - Other Adjustments: Change in present value of grants 8,960. Special event net income 15,207. Part XIII, Line 4b - Other Adjustments: Depreciation on rental property -41,779. 1 Europe (Including Iceland & Greenland) 0 0 Grantmaking 100000 0 0 0 0 0 0 100000 0 100000 Europe (Including Iceland & Greenland) National Glaucoma Research by Peter De Deyn, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled:(G2012028) 100000 Wire transfer 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Procedure for Monitoring Grants Outside the U.S.: Schedule F, Part I, Line 2: AHAF interacts with all grantees at least quarterly by e-mail or at scientific meetings. In addition to these interactions, each grant recipient is required to submit separate detailed annual Scientific Progress and Financial Reports to AHAF. These are received by the AHAF Scientific Affairs department, and reviewed by scientific staff with broad expertise in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, imaging and genetics. Senior staff reviews each Progress Report and evaluates the project for sufficient progress towards the specific aims proposed in the original application or any budgetary concerns. This effort is supported by additional scientific counsel from members of the AHAF Scientific Review Committees when required. In addition to statements of experimental progress, all grantees are asked to report any technical publications, media reports, or patent applications in which AHAF sponsored research is described. If significant concerns related to progress on the awards are discovered, the AHAF staff recommends appropriate actions to the Chair of the Board of Directors Grants Committee. The Scientific Affairs senior staff is empowered to authorize the withholding of funding, or discontinuation of awards, for any grantees that fail to achieve sufficient progress or fail to submit required reports. At the conclusion of the grant award period each grantee must complete and submit a Final Report that is also reviewed by the AHAF senior scientific staff. Evaluation of the work of each grantee is qualitatively and quantitatively assessed through various metrics related to impact of the grant on its targeted disease field. Such impact metrics have revealed that 95% of AHAF supported research results in research publications that advance the fields served by AHAF. This impact is further supported by the 2010 publication citation analysis that compared 1789 AHAF supported works to 3996 works supported by either the US Federal Government or that of other funding agencies. AHAF supported publications were cited nearly twice as frequently as the sample of papers published under the sole sponsorship of the US Government. With respect to a selection of manuscripts that listed solely non-US government funding sources, including other foundations, industry, and foreign governments, AHAF sponsored publications were cited, on average 2.3 times more frequently than the other funding sources. A final example of impact assessment revealed that the successes of AHAF grantees continue long after the grant expires. On average, each grantee receives 2.2 additional grants for projects spawned by the AHAF grant. These come at values nearly 10 times the level of the initial AHAF investment. AHAF solicits feedback from its grantees, and provides an anonymous forum for collecting such information. The Final Report package includes a page to be detached and anonymously mailed to the Scientific Affairs department. This document requests an assessment of the grantee experience as an AHAF awardee. Any suggestions, concerns, complaints, or positive experiences can be outlined and brought to the attention of AHAF on this form so that AHAF can address any areas needing improvement, reaffirm praise-worthy policies, or otherwise assess needs for programmatic change. The senior Scientific Staff present and summarize the status and progress on all grants to the AHAF Board of Directors at each of their quarterly Board Meetings. X X X X X X 1 WildeLW Robbins Associates Inc (Fundraising consultant) 201 Summer Street Holliston MA 01746 Direct Mail Fund. Counsel (June 2011 - March 2012) 0 12420984 873471 11547513 SCA Direct Inc (Fundraising consultant) 11208 Waples Mill Road Suite 106 Fairfax VA 22030 Direct Mail Fund. Counsel (April - May 2011) 0 2073496 131250 1942246 14494480 1004721 13489759 AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DC FL GA HI IL KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC TN UT VA WA WV WI Golf Tournament 54504 42845 11659 565 2651 9299 5302 0 9049 54504 42845 11659 565 2651 9299 5302 9049 26866 -15207 Explanation of Fundraising Payments Schedule G, Part I, Line 2b, Column (v) In the contracts with SCA Direct, Inc. and Wilde/LW Robbins Associates, Inc., the management fees are a fixed amount per month for in scope fundraising consulting services. Work performed out of the scope of fundraising consulting services are approved by AHAF before they are paid and performed. 1 Northwestern University 300 East Superior Street Chicago IL 60611 362167817 501(C)(3) 300000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Robert Vassar, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012063) Stanford University 300 Pasteur Drive Stanford CA 94305 941156365 501(C)(3) 100000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Alya Raphael, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012648) The J David Gladstone Institutes 1650 Owens Street San Francisco CA 94158 237203666 501(C)(3) 100000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Hwajin Kim, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012629) Washington University 660 South Euclid Avenue St Louis MO 63110 430653611 501(C)(3) 150000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Carl Frieden, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012422) Washington University 660 South Euclid Avenue St Louis MO 63110 430653611 501(C)(3) 150000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Jungsu Kim, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012421) The University of Chicago 924 East 57th Street JFK-RO14 Chicago IL 60637 362177139 501(C)(3) 150000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Angele Parent, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012386) Washington University 660 South Euclid Avenue St Louis MO 63110 430653611 501(C)(3) 300000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by John Cirrito, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012151) University of North Dakota School of Medicine 504 Hamline Street Grand Forks ND 58203 456014235 501(C)(3) 200000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Colin Combs, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012115) The Regents of the University of Michigan 210 Washtenaw Avenue Ann Arbor MI 48109 386006309 501(C)(3) 150000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Jason E. Gestwicki, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012078) Columbia University 630 West 168th Street New York NY 10032 135598093 501(C)(3) 50000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Ismael Santa-Maria Perez, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012636) Columbia University 630 West 168th Street New York NY 10032 135598093 501(C)(3) 100000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Jessica Wu, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012635) Mount Sinai School of Medicine One Gustave L Levy Place New York NY 10029 136171197 501(C)(3) 100000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Soong Ho Kim, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012625) Massachusetts General Hospital 149 13th Street Charlestown MA 021292020 041564655 501(C)(3) 100000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Ksenia Kastanenka, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012624) Harvard University 240 Longwood Avenue Boston MA 02115 042103580 501(C)(3) 50000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Sonia Mazzitelli, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012608) Massachusetts General Hospital 149 13th Street Charlestown MA 021292020 041564655 501(C)(3) 148962 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Mert Sabuncu, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012333) University of Pennsylvania 3615 Chestnut Street Philadelphia PA 191042676 231352685 501(C)(3) 300000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Steven Arnold, M.D. Entitled: (A2012116) Rutgers University 604 Allison Road Piscataway NJ 08854 226001086 501(C)(3) 300000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Karl Herrup, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012101) Johns Hopkins University 400 North Broadway Avenue Baltimore MD 21205 520595110 501(C)(3) 150000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Seth Margolis, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012070) Columbia University 630 West 168th Street New York NY 10032 135598093 501(C)(3) 300000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by W. Haung (Ho) Yu, Ph.D. Entitled:(A2012057) Columbia University 630 West 168th Street New York NY 10032 135598093 501(C)(3) 150000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Tae-Wan Kim, Ph.D. Entitled:(A2012056) Trustees of Boston University 72 East Concord Street Boston MA 02118 042103547 501(C)(3) 150000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Benjamin Wolozin, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012054) Brigham and Women's Hospital 77 Louis Pasteur Avenue Boston MA 02115 042312909 501(C)(3) 100000 Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Mel Feany, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled:(A2012029) Trustees of Indiana University 723 West Michigan Street Indianapolis IN 46202 356001673 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Jason Meyer, Ph.D. Entitled:(G2012027) Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System 600 Highland Avenue Madison WI 537924673 396006492 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Leonard Levin, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012015) Johns Hopkins University 400 North Broadway Avenue Baltimore MD 21287 520595110 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Derek Welsbie, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012034) Johns Hopkins University 400 North Broadway Avenue Baltimore MD 21287 520595110 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Shannath Merbs, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012033) Johns Hopkins University 400 North Broadway Avenue Baltimore MD 21287 520595110 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Zhiyong Yang, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012032) University of South Florida 4001 E Fletcher Avenue Tampa FL 33613 593102112 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Chad Anthony Dickey, Ph.D. Entitled:(G2012071) Georgetown University 3700 Reservoir Road NW Washington DC 200571107 530196603 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Alexander Theos, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012025) Duke University Department of Opthalmology 2351 Erwin Road Durham NC 27710 560532129 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Paloma B. Liton, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012022) Mayo Clinic Jacksonville 4500 San Pablo Road South Jacksonville FL 32224 593337028 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by Wing Lee, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012011) Vanderbilt University Medical Center 2311 Pierce Avenue Nashville TN 372328808 620476822 501(C)(3) 100000 National Glaucoma Research by John Kuchtey, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012007) University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center 941 Stanton L Young Boulevard Oklahoma Cty OK 73104 736017987 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Krysten Farjo, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012057) University of Texas Medical Branch 700 University Boulevard Galveston TX 77555 746000949 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Jiyang Cai, Ph.D., Ph.D. Entitled:(M2012012) Johns Hopkins University 400 North Broadway Avenue Baltimore MD 212312128 520595110 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Noriko Esumi, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012102) Albert Einstein College of Medicine 1300 Morris Park Avenue Bronx NY 10461 131624225 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Wei Liu, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012044) Trustees of Boston University 72 East Concord Street Boston MA 02118 042103547 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Matthew Nugent, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012014) Vanderbilt University Medical Center 2311 Pierce Avenue Nashville TN 372328808 620476822 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Ashwath Jayagopal, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012067) University of Miami 1638 NW 10th Avenue Miami FL 33136 590624458 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Gaofeng Wang, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012048) Vanderbilt University Medical Center 2213 Garland Avenue Nashville TN 372328808 620476822 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Milam Brantley, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012045) University of Florida 1600 SW Archer Road Gainesville FL 32610 596002052 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Haoyu Mao, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012029) University of Miami 1638 NW 10th Avenue Miami FL 33136 590624458 501(C)(3) 100000 Macular Degeneration Research by Wei Li, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012026) 28 0 Procedure for Monitoring Grants in the U.S.: Part I, Line 2: Schedule I, Part I, Line 2: AHAF interacts with all grantees at least quarterly by e-mail or at scientific meetings. In addition to these interactions, each grant recipient is required to submit separate detailed annual Scientific Progress and Financial Reports to AHAF. These are received by the AHAF Scientific Affairs department, and reviewed by scientific staff with broad expertise in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, imaging and genetics. Senior staff reviews each Progress Report and evaluates the project for sufficient progress towards the specific aims proposed in the original application or any budgetary concerns. This effort is supported by additional scientific counsel from members of the AHAF Scientific Review Committees when required. In addition to statements of experimental progress, all grantees are asked to report any technical publications, media reports, or patent applications in which AHAF sponsored research is described. If significant concerns related to progress on the awards are discovered, the AHAF staff recommends appropriate actions to the Chair of the Board of Directors Grants Committee. The Scientific Affairs senior staff is empowered to authorize the withholding of funding, or discontinuations of awards, for any grantees that fail to achieve sufficient progress or fail to submit required reports. At the conclusion of the grant award period, each grantee must complete and submit a Final Report that is also reviewed by the AHAF senior scientific staff. Evaluation of the work of each grantee is qualitatively and quantitatively assessed through various metrics related to impact of the grant on its targeted disease field. Such impact metrics have revealed that 95% of AHAF supported research results in research publications that advance the fields served by AHAF. This impact is further supported by the 2010 publication citation analysis that compared 1789 AHAF supported works to 3996 works supported by either the US Federal Government or that of other funding agencies. AHAF supported publications were cited nearly twice as frequently as the sample of papers published under the sole sponsorship of the US Government. With respect to a selection of manuscripts that listed solely non-US government funding sources, including other foundations, industry, and foreign governments, AHAF sponsored publications were cited, on average 2.3 times more frequently than the other funding sources. A final example of impact assessment revealed that the successes of AHAF grantees continue long after the grant expires. On average, each grantee receives 2.2 additional grants for projects spawned by the AHAF grant. These come at values nearly 10 times the level of the initial AHAF investment. AHAF solicits feedback from its grantees, and provides an anonymous forum for collecting such information. The Final Report package includes a page to be detached and anonymously mailed to the Scientific Affairs department. This document requests an assessment of the grantee experience as an AHAF awardee. Any suggestions, concerns, complaints, or positive experiences can be outlined and brought to the attention of AHAF on this form so that AHAF can address any areas needing improvement, reaffirm praise-worthy policies, or otherwise assess needs for programmatic change. The senior Scientific Staff present and summarize the status and progress on all grants to the AHAF Board of Directors at each of their quarterly Board Meetings. X X X X X 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Stacy Pagos Haller 239604 0 45000 0 818 0 12250 0 40176 0 337848 0 0 0 Donna Callison 161000 0 0 0 1032 0 6125 0 18669 0 186826 0 0 0 Guy Eakin Ph D 120420 0 0 0 216 0 18734 0 26588 0 165958 0 0 0 David F Marks CPA CMA 145507 0 0 0 552 0 22150 0 17134 0 185343 0 0 0 Melissa May 133540 0 0 0 552 0 568 0 15982 0 150642 0 0 0 Part I, Line 3 Before approving the compensation of the CEO, the Board determines the total compensation to be provided by AHAF to the CEO is reasonable in light of the position, responsibility and qualification of the position held including the result of an evaluation of prior performance for the Foundation, if applicable. The CEO is evaluated annually by the Board through the use of an in-depth goal attainment structure, (developed with advice from Board Source) that includes a self assessment and Board assessment and evaluation against set goals, outcomes and deliverables. The Board obtains and considers appropriate data, including a salary survey, which includes information compiled from the Form 990 of other organizations, concerning compensation paid to CEOs in like circumstances. In making the determination, the Board shall consider total compensation to include the salary and value of all benefits provided by AHAF to the individual in payment for services. At the time of the AHAF Board discussion and decision concerning the CEOs compensation, the CEO is not present in the meeting. Part I, Line 7 As the President/CEO's bonus was not a fixed payment specified in her employment contract, this item has been answered 'yes' in accordance with the Internal Revenue Service's instructions. However, it should be noted that her bonus was a non-fixed payment based on AHAF's internal procedures. The Board of Directors considers the award of a discretionary bonus each year. The determination of the bonus compensation is capped at $50,000 and if not warranted will not be awarded at all. The determination is made by the full Board upon recommendation of its Compensation Committee. The Committee considers a set of goals for the organization developed at the beginning of the year in consultation with the President/CEO. Each goal is evaluated at the end of the fiscal year to determine whether the goal has been met or exceeded. A value is ascribed to goals which are met or exceeded, with exceed or "reach" goals receiving a higher value and unmet goals receiving no value. The value of all met or exceeded goals is then added together and inserted as the numerator in an equation with the total cap of the bonus as the denominator. This equation is then used to calculate the fraction or percentage, if any, of the total allowable bonus which will be awarded. X 11 46743 FMV X Donated Food 1 2800 FMV X Special events items 1 7249 FMV 0 1 0 Form 990, Part VI, Section A, line 4 Effective January 1, 2012, AHAF's Bylaws have been amended to conform to the governance over nonprofit organization per the new D.C. Nonprofit Corporation Act of 2010. These changes are listed below. Article IV 1. Providing the Board with the power to establish committees. 2. The Chairperson recommends the members and Chair of these committees. 3. The composition of the Board and committees has been defined. Article V 1. Prohibiting the filling of vacancies. Article XI 1. Limits the contracting of loans without approval of the Board. Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 11 A draft of the federal Form 990 shall be distributed to the Audit Committee for review prior to being submitted to the Internal Revenue Service. The draft federal Form 990 shall be distributed early enough to provide each Committee member with a reasonable amount of time for review and submission of questions or comments prior to the filing deadline. The final federal Form 990 shall be distributed to each Board member prior to being filed with the Internal Revenue Service. The draft and final Form 990 may be distributed in person, by regular mail, e-mail, or fax. Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 12c AHAF has all employees, officers, and directors agree to the code of conduct that includes adherence to the Conflict of Interest and Implementation Policy. Each board director, officer, and employee is required annually to complete a conflict of interest disclosure statement, which is thereafter reviewed by AHAF's chief compliance officer. If a conflict is reported it is then referred to AHAF's legal counsel and, if appropriate and necessary, then to the Board of Directors or its appointed Committee for further action. Although a person with a potential or actual conflict may provide factual information to the Board and respond to the Board's questions, he or she may not participate in the discussion or decision of a proposed transaction or matter. The conflicted person shall recuse him/herself from the deliberation process, and leave the meeting. Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 15a AHAF's Board of Directors has overall authority and responsibility for approving the annual budget which includes compensation for all employees at every level including non-director officers. All pay adjustments are made on a yearly basis effective April 1st, the beginning of the AHAF fiscal year. Before approving the compensation of the CEO, the Board of Directors determines the total compensation to be provided by AHAF to the CEO is reasonable in light of the position, responsibility and qualification of the position held including the result of an evaluation of prior performance for AHAF, if applicable. The CEO is evaluated annually by the Board of Directors through the use of an in-depth goal attainment structure, (developed with advice from Board Source) that includes a self assessment and a Board of Directors assessment and evaluation against set goals, outcomes and deliverables. The Board of Directors obtains and considers appropriate data, including a salary survey, which includes information compiled from the federal Form 990 of other organizations, concerning compensation paid to CEOs in like circumstances. In making the determination, the Board of Directors shall consider total compensation to include the salary and value of all benefits provided by AHAF to the individual in payment for services. At the time of the AHAF Board discussion and decision concerning the CEOs compensation, the CEO is not present in the meeting. The Board of Directors shall set forth the basis for its decisions with respect to compensation in the minutes of the meeting at which the decisions are made, including the conclusions of the evaluation and the basis for determining that the individual's compensation was reasonable in light of the evaluation and comparability data. Form 990, Part VI, Section C, line 19 AHAF makes its governing documents including its articles of incorporation and bylaws, conflict of interest policy, audited financial statements and federal Form 990 available to the public upon request. In addition, the public also has access to the annual report, the federal Form 1023, audited financial statements, the 501(C)(3) letter of determination from the Internal Revenue Service, and federal Form 990 on the AHAF website. Changes in Net Assets or Fund Balances: Form 990, Part XI, line 5: Net unrealized gains on investments: 4,614. Recoveries of prior year grants 99,277. Change in Present value of grants -8,960. Special event net income -15,207. Total to Form 990, Part XI, Line 5: 79,724. Schedule I, Part II, Line 1, Column (H): Name of organization or government: Northwestern University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Robert Vassar, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012063) BACE1 and Axon Guidance. Investigator's Summary: Pharmaceutical companies are developing drugs to block the enzyme BACE1 that makes the toxic substance amyloid that accumulates in the brains of Alzheimer's disease patients. However, our results suggest that these drugs may disturb the wiring of the brain and therefore may cause negative side-effects, such as problems with learning and memory. The goal of our research is to better understand the role of BACE1 in processes involved in brain wiring and then inform drug makers and physicians as to the potential for BACE1 drug side-effects and how to avoid them. Name of organization or government: Stanford University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Alya Raphael, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012648) Stress Granule Pathways in TDP-43 Toxicity. Investigator's Summary: Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disease are devastating diseases that many thousands of people each year and have enormous societal costs. The pathology of many of these diseases involves the formation of insoluble protein aggregates, although whether these aggregates are the cause or result of disease is unknown. TDP-43 and the related protein FUS are found aggregated in several neurodegenerative diseases and understanding the biology behind their pathology may point to new treatment strategies. Name of organization or government: The J. David Gladstone Institutes. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Hwajin Kim, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012629) Mitochondrial fission at the synapse in Alzheimer's Disease. Investigator's Summary: Mitochondria are vital organelles that generate energy, and fragmentation of mitochondria appears to play an important role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this proposal, we study the mechanisms by which mitochondrial fission may contribute to AD, and test whether reversal of mitochondrial fission may be an effective therapeutic strategy for preventing AD progression. Name of organization or government: Washington University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Carl Frieden, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012422) Develop Screening Assays to Differentiate ApoE Isoforms. Investigator's Summary: The primary cause for developing late-onset Alzheimer's Disease rests in the properties of one of the apoE isoforms, specifically apoE4. The screening procedures we will develop are designed to lead to the long term goal of finding therapeutic agents that specifically target apoE4 without disrupting the physiological function of the normal apoE3 isoform. Our hypothesis is that such agents will alter the deleterious effects of apoE4 and thereby delay or prevent the onset of Alzheimer's Disease. Name of organization or government: Washington University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Jungsu Kim, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012421) Role of a LDLR-interacting protein in LDLR, ApoE, and Abeta Metabolism. Investigator's Summary: Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotype is the strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our previous studies suggest that low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) binds to apoE protein and dramatically affects AD pathogenesis. We propose to investigate role of a novel LDLR interacting protein in regulating LDLR and apoE protein levels in order to test its potential as AD therapeutics. Name of organization or government: The University of Chicago. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Angele Parent, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012386) Functional Interaction of APP-CTF with GalphaS in Brain. Investigator's Summary: Our research efforts focus on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. In this proposal, we intend to use mice to study the function of proteins that are suspected to contribute to the pathogenesis in this disease. We use cell culture and transgenic mouse models in our research to clarify the role of genetically engineer proteins (such as our membrane-tethered amyloid intracellular domain), which could affect the progression of AD. AAV brain administration strategy in AD mouse models is the first step toward a comprehensive evaluation of the beneficial effect associated with brain overexpression of these modified proteins. Our ultimate goal is to develop novel therapeutic strategies applicable to human to fight this devastating disorder. Name of organization or government: Washington University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by John Cirrito, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012151) Endocytic Trafficking in Synaptic Amyloid-B Generation. Investigator's Summary: Amyloid-beta peptide aggregation and accumulation appears to be the initial step that sets off a cascade of factors that lead to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Two proteins, PICALM and Bin1, have recently been identified in genetic studies as risk factors for AD. This proposal will determine the cellular mechanisms by which these proteins act and interact to mediate amyloid-beta generation in living mice. Name of organization or government: University of North Dakota School of Medicine. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Colin Combs, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012115) Novel Approach for Attenuating Microgliosis in Alzheimer's Disease. Investigator's Summary: The main goal of this project is to prove that a specific protein is responsible for most of the inflammation that occurs in the brain during Alzheimer's disease. We intend to not only identify this protein but also test specific strategies to interfere with its function using a mouse model of the disease. This interference should be able to decrease the inflammation in the brain and decrease behavioral decline. Name of organization or government: The Regents of the University of Michigan. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Jason E. Gestwicki, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012078) Chemical Approaches to Reducing Tau Levels. Investigator's Summary: Tau is a protein that aberrantly accumulates in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. The goal of this proposal is to determine whether newly discovered chemical inhibitors of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) will reduce tau accumulation. Such compounds would be expected to be potential therapeutics with an under-explored mechanism. Name of organization or government: Columbia University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Ismael Santa-Maria Perez, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012636) Role of MicroRNAs in Tangle Predominant Alzheimer's Disease. Investigator's Summary: Neurofibrillary Tangles are histopathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. The lack of a defined mechanism of Neurofibrillary Tangle formation is impeding the development of new therapies. Determining the mechanism of tau accumulation uncovering genetics variants, or deciphering a dysregulation in microRNAs MAPT gene expression regulation will let allow us to propose different targets suitable for therapy of this variant of Alzheimer's disease. Name of organization or government: Columbia University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Jessica Wu, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012635) Conformation-Dependent Uptake and Secretion of Tau. Investigator's Summary: The tau protein is important to maintain neuronal health in the central nervous system and subsequently, when misfolded, accumulates and becomes a key pathological feature in Alzheimer's disease and other frontotemporal dementia. We have determined that misfolded tau is taken up in neurons. This project aims to identify the important questions of how misfolded tau is released from neurons and then taken up by surrounding neurons to spread pathology in diseases. Name of organization or government: Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Soong Ho Kim, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012625) Testing of Group II mGluR Antagonist as a Potential Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. Investigator's Summary: We will test a drug candidate that can potentially reduce brain levels of amyloid beta protein, which has been shown to be toxic to brain cells. This drug has also been shown to enhance brain function, act as an anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medication and also has potential to encourage the brain to replace damaged cells involved in learning and memory. Name of organization or government: Massachusetts General Hospital. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Ksenia Kastanenka, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012624) Role of Neural Activity in Alzheimer's Disease. Investigator's Summary: Development of therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been hampered by a lack of clear understanding of its etiology. Until recently scientific community has been focusing solely on the molecular mechanisms leading to the onset of AD, disregarding perturbations of neural activity within the brain networks vulnerable to AD pathology. This research will provide great insight into the area of neural activity that has been greatly unexplored and will build a stronger platform for innovation of successful therapeutic agents. Name of organization or government: Harvard University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Sonia Mazzitelli, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012608) Mechanism of RIP-1 in Mediating Abeta Neurotoxicity. Investigator's Summary: Chronic inflammation is associated with broad spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases of aging including Alzheimer's disease (AD). We propose a novel way to investigate the connection between chronic inflammation and neuronal loss associated with AD. This research will provide relevant information to propose: 1- a new target for the treatment of AD; 2- the potential of developing a new therapy. Name of organization or government: Massachusetts General Hospital. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Mert Sabuncu, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012333) Predicting Future Alzheimer's Disease Onset Based on MRI and Genotype. Investigator's Summary: Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, has a multi-year pre-clinical phase, during which subtle changes begin to happen in the brain, yet clinical symptoms such as memory loss don't yet appear. This project will develop a computer system that analyzes brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and saliva-derived DNA data in order to reliably quantify risk of Alzheimer's before memory complaints begin. This technology will provide a means to identify high-risk but healthy individuals who would benefit most from a drug that can slow down the progression of the disease. Name of organization or government: University of Pennsylvania. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Steven Arnold, M.D. Entitled: (A2012116) Effect of Insulin Sensitizer Metformin on Alzheimer's Disease Biomarkers. Investigator's Summary: Previous studies and our own laboratory work have shown that the brain in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is resistant to the healthy growth effects of insulin and that re-sensitizing brain cells to insulin may be a useful therapeutic strategy. We have identified the anti-diabetes drug, metformin, as a safe medicine that enters the brain and re-sensitizes insulin receptors. This proposal seeks to conduct an efficient clinical trial with metformin in people with mild cognitive impairment and early dementia due to AD to determine its effect on cognitive functioning and physiological and biochemical biomarkers of AD. Name of organization or government: Rutgers University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Karl Herrup, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012101) Glutamine as a Neuroprotective Agent in Alzheimer's Disease Therapy. Investigator's Summary: Glutamine is a simple amino acid that has been clinical proven to provide tissue protection under the stress of chemo- or radiation therapy as well as after intestinal surgery. Strangely, this effect has never been studied to any degree in the nervous system to determine if neurons can be similarly protected from neurodegeneration, as in Alzheimer's disease. We have developed preliminary data to show that this is likely and we propose a series of experiments both in tissue culture and in mouse models to move this idea as rapidly as possible towards its application in human beings. Name of organization or government: Johns Hopkins University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Seth Margolis, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012070) Correcting Synapse Loss in the Alzheimer's Disease Brain. Investigator's Summary: Several recent studies including our own suggest the intriguing hypothesis that neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) share a common causative feature: loss of appropriate numbers of functional connections in the brain. We have identified an endogenous biological inhibitor of brain development, which is increased in amount in the AD brain. This project is aimed at discovering the AD phenotypes which are a result of this increased inhibitor amount, and identifying small molecule blockers to this inhibitor; a first step in a larger project to develop therapeutics for treating AD. Name of organization or government: Columbia University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by W. Haung (Ho) Yu, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012057) Tau Homeostasis Via Proteasomal and Autophagic Activity. Investigator's Summary: This grant will further our understanding of how the ubiquitin-proteasome (UPS)and autophagic-lysosome system (A-LS) act in concert to maintain protein homeostasis. In Alzheimer's disease, protein aggregation is a hallmark which is often accompanied by failure of UPS and A-LS, suggesting that these two degradation pathways are important for disease prevention. Along with our understanding of these two mechanism, this study will provide insight into the utility of compounds that enhance UPS and A-LS function in reducing tauopathy and restoring long-lived UPS and A-LS activity. Name of organization or government: Columbia University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Tae-Wan Kim, Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012056) Novel CNS Transporter Target in Alzheimer's Disease. Investigator's Summary: We have identified novel therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease. The proposed research will further validate the new target and generate therapeutic lead compound. Furthermore, we will study this target further using cell biological approach. Name of organization or government: Trustees of Boston University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Benjamin Wolozin, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012054) RNA Binding Proteins in Alzheimer's Disease. Investigator's Summary: RNA binding proteins (RBPs) regulate the conversion of messenger RNA to protein through formation of complexes, termed RNA granules. Stress induces formation of a particular type of complex, termed the stress granules (SG). By examining SGs, we have identified novel types of pathology in the brains of subjects with Alzheimer's disease, and in this proposal we will investigate how these SGs might contribute to the causes and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Name of organization or government: Brigham and Women's Hospital. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Alzheimer's Disease Reasearch by Mel Feany, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (A2012029) Mitochondrial Pathology in Tauopathy. Investigator's Summary: In our proposal we use clues from genetic screens to develop a detailed understanding of the mechanisms by which tau becomes toxic to neurons in Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. In particular, we test the hypothesis that abnormal stabilization of F-actin by tau results in mislocalization of Drp1, mitochondrial elongation, and subsequent mitochondrial dysfunction. If we can confirm our preliminary data supporting our hypothesis, then the wide array of well-characterized proteins that control the stability of the actin cytoskeleton, mitochondrial dynamics, and mitochondrial function will become attractive as potential therapeutic targets in Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. Name of organization or government: Trustees of Indiana University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Jason Meyer, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012027) Patient-specific Stem Cells for Studies of Glaucoma. Investigator's Summary: The specific aims of this proposal are designed to develop stem cells from specific patients with glaucoma that can be used to develop the cell types that are lost due to this disease. Using these cells, we can study specific features of glaucoma and potentially develop new therapeutic options. Name of organization or government: Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Leonard Levin, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012015) Redox Sulfhydryl Modifications As A Glaucoma Biomarker. Investigator's Summary: The irreversible loss of vision in glaucoma is from damage to the optic nerve causing death of nerve cells, but the details of the pathway by which the damage causes the death is still not known. We believe that there are one or more pivotal molecules which are critical to this pathway, based on how new drugs called 'phosphine-borane complexes' block it. Identifying these pivotal molecules could potentially allow glaucoma to be detected before it causes significant visual loss, help in monitoring the response to therapy, and even lead to new and better therapies for the disease. Name of organization or government: Johns Hopkins University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Derek Welsbie, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012034) Genome-wide RNAi Screening in Retinal Ganglion Cells. Investigator's Summary: Vision loss from glaucoma is caused by the death of retinal ganglion cells, important nerve cells which carry vision from the eye to the brain. We are using gene therapy to try to better understand the signals which trigger these ganglion cells to die. In doing so, we hope to identify new drug targets that could be used to prevent cell death and vision loss. Name of organization or government: Johns Hopkins University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Shannath Merbs, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012033) The Role of DNA Methylation in Ganglion Cell Death. Investigator's Summary: Although glaucoma is a common disease, little has been found in the way of a genetic contribution, suggesting that many genes and environmental factors may act together to cause the disease. In our study, we will look for 'epigenetic' changes (modifications to the DNA that can be caused, in part, by the environment) in an animal model of glaucoma. We will also test if manipulation of DNA methylation improves gangion cell survival. Name of organization or government: Johns Hopkins University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Zhiyong Yang, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012032) Role of a Protein Kinase in Retinal Ganglion Cell Degeneration in Glaucoma. Investigator's Summary: The research proposed in this application will directly determine the potential value of a novel molecular target in the treatment of vision loss in glaucoma. In addition, a drug candidate that can block this target will be evaluated for its potential in the preservation of vision in a rodent model of glaucoma. Name of organization or government: University of South Florida. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Chad Anthony Dickey, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012071) Disrupting Chaperone/myocilin Complexes for Glaucoma. Investigator's Summary: We have determined that a class of proteins termed chaperones plays an important part in preserving another protein called myocilin. This is important because mutant myocilin accumulates in the distinct cells in the eye, killing them, and leading to glaucoma. We speculate that these chaperones will be excellent drug targets for primary open-angle glaucoma. Name of organization or government: Georgetown University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Alexander Theos, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012025) Cell Biology of NMB in Pigmentary Glaucoma. Investigator's Summary: DBA/2J mice are an animal model of pigment dispersion syndrome (PDS) which is a precursor to glaucoma in humans. These mice harbor a putative loss of function mutation in the NMB gene which is responsible for this disease. We are proposing experiments that will characterize the cell biology of the NMB protein within pigmented cells of the eye in order to understand the functional role of NMB in normal cells, and, in addition, how loss of function of NMB causes PDS. Name of organization or government: Duke University Department of Ophthalmology. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Paloma B. Liton, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012022) Autophagy and Neurodegeneration in Glaucoma. Investigator's Summary: Under stress conditions, cells eat themselves to obtain the nutrients and energy required for survival. We will investigate whether self-eating protects the optic nerve against the insult produced by chronic high eye pressure. Name of organization or government: Mayo Clinic Jacksonville. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by Wing Lee, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012011) Development of Novel Therapeutic for Inherited Glaucoma. Investigator's Summary: The study proposed aims at developing a new type of medicine for a common form glaucoma related to mutations in a gene called myocilin. It was found that some inherited mutations can change the structure of myocilin which can lead to toxicity and dysfunction of the eye cells responsible for regulating eye pressure. We attempt to identify drug-like chemical compounds that can bind to and stabilize the structure of mutated myocilin which subsequently may delay the disease onset or slow down disease progression by correcting abnormal changes at molecular level. Name of organization or government: Vanderbilt University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: National Glaucoma Research by John Kuchtey, Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012007) Identification of Glaucoma Genes by Exome Sequencing. Investigator's Summary: The purpose of this study is to identify causative genetic mutations in two families with inherited primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). These families have already been screened for mutations in genes known to cause PCG, with no causative mutations found. Therefore, identification of the causative mutations in these families will result in the discovery of new glaucoma genes. Name of organization or government: University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Krysten Farjo, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012057) A Novel Visual Cycle Inhibitor to Treat Macular Degeneration. Investigator's Summary: Macular degeneration is initiated and perpetuated by the accumulation of toxic vitamin A derivatives in the retina. Our research efforts are focused on developing a novel therapeutic agent which reduces the formation of toxic Vitamin A derivatives by inhibiting Vitamin A uptake into the retina. The ultimate goal is to develop a therapeutic agent that could be utilized to slow and prevent vision loss in patients with macular degeneration. Schedule F, Part II, Line 1, Column D: Name of organization: University of Antwerp (D) Purpose of Grant: National Glaucoma Research by Peter De Deyn, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (G2012028) Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure at the Link Between Glaucoma and Alzheimer's Disease. Investigators Summary: Alzheimer's disease patients may be at higher risk of developing glaucoma. Both in patients and in a valid mouse model for Alzheimer's disease, we will study the underlying disease mechanisms responsible for this higher risk. We hypothesize that an increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure may be a major factor in this process. Grant Awarded: $100,000 University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium. Name of organization or government: University of Texas Medical Branch. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Jiyang Cai, Ph.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012012) Exosomal MicroRNA From the RPE. Investigator's Summary: Interactions between the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and their underlying choroidal blood vessels are critical in maintaining the structure and functions of the outer retina. We will examine how microvesicles released from the RPE can transfer genetic materials to the choroidal endothelial cells and modulate their functions. Results from our study can reveal a novel signaling mechanism with implications in age-related macular degeneration. Name of organization or government: Johns Hopkins University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Noriko Esumi, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012102) Mouse Models For Studying The Role Of Inflammation in AMD. Investigator's Summary: Among age-related diseases that develop on the conditions of aged tissues, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the elderly worldwide, and thought to result from abnormalities of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Chronic inflammation has been recognized as a major underlying condition of aging in multiple tissues, and various environmental stimuli, such as oxidative stress and inflammatory molecules, converge upon a critical master regulator of inflammation. However, our understanding of the role of chronic inflammation and its master regulator in the RPE and AMD is still rudimentary, particularly in live animals, and therefore I propose to generate transgenic mouse models for two major purposes: 1) to address the biological role of this master regulator and its key modulator in the RPE of live animals, and 2) to ultimately evaluate whether modulation of these molecules can be a possible strategy for AMD treatment or prevention. Name of organization or government: Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Wei Liu, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012044) Efficient Differentiation of Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells from hESC. Investigator's Summary: This research program aims at efficient generation of RPE cells in H1 hESC-derived cultures by supplementing Wnts and BMPs to retinal differentiation medium. This program is based on the recent findings that Wnt/beta-catenin and BMP signal transduction pathways promotes embryonic RPE development. The outcomes of this program are expected to develop a more efficient protocol for the generation of RPE cells in hESC or iPSC cultures and thus benefit the emerging stem cell-based strategy in treating and disease modeling of Age-related macular degeneration in which RPE cells are impaired and degenerated. Name of organization or government: Trustees of Boston University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Matthew Nugent, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012014) VEGF-ECM Interactions in Choroidal Neovascularization. Investigator's Summary: The unnatural growth of blood vessels, also called neovascularization, in the retina associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness in the world. Excess vascular endothelial growth factor, a protein that stimulates blood vessel growth, has been shown to be a major cause of neovascularization in AMD. In the present project, we propose to identify new ways that vascular endothelial growth factor activity is naturally controlled by interactions with the protein, fibronectin, so that we can target this pathway to more effectively treat neovascularization in the retina to prevent blindness. Name of organization or government: Vanderbilt University. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Ashwath Jayagopal, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012067) In Vivo Molecular Imaging of Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration. Investigator's Summary: This proposal focuses on the development of nanoscale imaging agents capable of detecting biomarkers of early choroidal neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). With the capability of molecular imaging, clinicians will be able to better treat AMD patients, through enhanced early detection, staging of disease, and monitoring of therapeutic response. Furthermore, this strategy will enable detailed imaging and therapeutic molecular target discovery in AMD to be conducted in preclinical and clinical studies. Name of organization or government: University of Miami. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Gaofeng Wang, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012048) Determine the Existence and Sequence of ARMS2 Protein. Investigator's Summary: The gene ARMS2 is strongly associated with the risk to develop age-related macular degeneration. The existence and the sequence of ARMS2 protein have not yet been proven experimentally. We plan to prove the existence or non-existence of ARMS2 protein in human retina tissues. Name of organization or government: Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Milam Brantley, M.D., Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012045) Quantitative Evaluation of Environmental Risk for Age-related Macular Degeneration. Investigator's Summary: The proposed research will examine how environment and genetics contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Using the cutting-edge technique of metabolomics, we will measure thousands of molecules called metabolites in the blood to investigate the environmental exposures that influence the likelihood that an individual will develop AMD. Determining the combination of metabolites and genetics that are associated with AMD will lead to a better understanding of the disease and personalized clinical care for AMD. Name of organization or government: University of Florida. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Haoyu Mao, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012029) Treatment of Retinal Degeneration in a Mouse Model for Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration. Investigator's Summary: Currently, there is no effective treatment for the early form age-related macular degeneration (AMD)-dry AMD. Our mission is to develop new treatment for the dry form AMD. Therefore, our mission coincides with the mission of the AHAF. Name of organization or government: University of Miami. Purpose of Grant or Assistance: Macular Degeneration Research by Wei Li, Ph.D. Entitled: (M2012026) Anti-retinal Autoantibodies as Age-related Macular Degeneration Biomarkers. Investigator's Summary: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in industrialized countries. Biomarkers potentially could facilitate early diagnosis of the disease, which is important for early treatment to delay the disease or reduce its severity. This project will systematically identify anti-retinal autoantibodies in patient blood as biomarkers by a newly-developed technology for early diagnosis of AMD. National Development LLC 22512 Gateway Center Drive Clarksburg MD 20871 237337229 Property rental and managment MD 902075 5136566 N/A American Health Assistance LLC 22512 Gateway Center Drive Clarksburg MD 20871 237337229 Owner of AHAF headquarters MD 4333285 N/A