The Dan Lewis Foundation for Brain Regeneration Research Announces 2024 Prize Open for Applications
Dan Lewis Foundation | Winter 2024

The Dan Lewis Foundation for Brain Regeneration Research (the DLF) is happy to announce the 2024 DLF Prize. This $20,000 prize will be awarded to an early career scientist in neuroscience, pharmacology, or biotechnology whose research record and future research plans align closely with one or more of the DLF’s current research priorities. These research priorities are:


  1. Research into pharmacological methods of reactivating or augmenting synaptogenesis
  2. Research into trials of repleting damaged cortex using derived cortical neurons
  3. Research into transcriptomic profiles of cortical neurons during the recovery phase post brain injury
  4. Research furthering the effective design of antisense oligonucleotides and/or other small molecule medicines to down-regulate inhibitors of regeneration in the cortex and spinal cord.


The successful applicant must be an early career scientist in neuroscience, molecular biology, pharmacology, or biotechnology. The “early career scientist” should be within 2-5 years post-completion of their doctoral degree. Full consideration is given to those scientists working in an academic setting (university or non-profit) or commercial setting (e.g., pharmaceutical or biotech company). The application is due March 31, 2024. Full details are available online through the linked application portal below. The winner of the DLF Prize 2024 will be notified in early June 2024.


https://www.danlewisfoundation. org/application-portal   


The winner of the 2023 DLF Prize, Dr. Roei Maimon has focused on stimulating the brain to create new neurons, an important process in mitigating the detrimental effects of neurodegenerative diseases and injuries. Most recently, Dr. Maimon and colleagues designed and executed tests using a certain type of biomolecular “medicines” called antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to generate glia-to-neuron conversion in the adult rodent nervous system. These new neurons matured and functionally integrated into endogenous circuits over a two month period, ultimately positively influencing the behavior of the mice.


Dr. Maimon has demonstrated his enthusiasm for the DLF and for the field of brain regeneration research by participating in several DLF activities designed to increase public awareness of our mission. We look forward to meeting the next DLF Prize winner and to supporting the development of young neuroscientists and their accomplishments in the field of brain regeneration.

A man in a white lab coat and tie is standing in front of a blue background.

Rethinking Stroke Recovery: New Insights into Neuronal Remapping and Rehabilitation Potential

By Dan Lewis Foundation • November 13, 2024
Stroke is a common neurological condition that damages brain cells (neurons) in the affected area, leading to a loss of the functions controlled by that region. A hopeful aspect of stroke recovery is that, over time and with rehabilitation, many individuals regain some abilities. This recovery has been linked to a process called “remapping,” where neurons in unaffected areas of the brain adapt to take over the functions of the damaged areas. Although many studies have explored this remapping phenomenon, most evidence has been indirect, based on changes in brain activation patterns or neuron connections after stroke in animal models. Direct proof that neurons change functionality after stroke has been lacking, partly because measuring neuron activity in the brain over time, especially at the necessary scale and duration, is challenging.
A man is holding a fish in his hand in front of a lake.

Devon’s Journey – Two Years Post-Accident

By Dan Lewis Foundation • November 6, 2024
After a life-altering accident in October 2022, Devon Guffey’s story is about resilience and determination. His journey has been profiled in the summer 2023 issue of the Making Headway Newsletter: https://www.danlewisfoundation.org/devons-story . Hit by a drunk driver, Devon sustained severe brain and physical injuries, including axonal shearing, a traumatic frontal lobe injury, and facial fractures. Even after contracting meningitis while in a coma, Devon fought hard to survive – and today, his recovery continues to inspire us all. In late 2023, Devon worked as an assistant basketball coach at Blue River Valley, where he had once been a student. His love for sports and dedication to regaining his physical strength returned him to the gym, where his hard work paid off. Devon’s persistence earned him another job at the YMCA, guiding gym members and supporting facility upkeep. Through all the challenges—deafness in one ear, blindness in one eye, and a permanent loss of taste and smell—Devon perseveres. He recently regained his driving license, a significant milestone that symbolizes his increasing independence and cognitive and physical recovery. While each day may not show significant changes, Devon now sees his progress over time. Today, Devon speaks to groups about his journey, the dangers of drunk driving, and finding strength in adversity. His message is clear: recovery is a process, and sometimes, "can't" simply means "can't do it yet ." Every TBI is unique, and Devon’s story powerfully reminds us of the strength that comes from resilience and community. We are grateful to Devon for continuing to share his story and for his role in uplifting others facing difficult paths. His journey is a testament to the fact that we are stronger together. #BrainInjuryAwareness #DevonsJourney #Resilience #EndDrunkDriving #MakingHeadway
Share by: