Hope Center for Neurological Disorders

Conducting collaborative translational research focused on the mechanisms of neurodegeneration and neural repair

Scientific Director: David Holtzman, MD
Executive Director: Anneliese Schaefer, JD, PhD

Mission

The mission of the Hope Center is to improve the lives of people living with neurological disorders, through collaborative research that aims to discover fundamental mechanisms of neurodegeneration and repair, and translate that new understanding into cures and treatments.

The Hope Center brings together world-leading scientists and clinician scientists whose expertise spans many different disciplines and diseases. Their common focus is neurodegeneration, which occurs when brain cells (“neurons”) and their connections (“synapses”) are damaged by disease or injury. These investigators share the conviction that there are common molecular mechanisms of degeneration, and that fundamental discoveries related to one disease can lead to cures and treatments in others.

The Hope Center accelerates the translational research process through these objectives:

  • Establish state-of-the-art core resources and technical expertise, so that basic science discoveries can be rapidly tested in relevant and validated animal models.
  • Provide funding for innovative disease-focused research, without the multi-year delays that can be typical for other sources of grant funds.
  • Develop a research infrastructure that promotes collaboration across disciplines and institutions, trains the next generation of scientists, and speeds dissemination of information.

The Hope Center is a collaborative alliance between Washington University and Hope Happens , a St. Louis-based nonprofit organziation. Hope Happens (formerly ALS Hope) was established in January 2002 by musician, advocate, and ALS patient, Chris Hobler, together with his family.

Visit the Hope Center website

Contact the Hope Center

E-mail: HopeCenter@email.wustl.edu

Phone: (314) 273-1730

Fax: (314) 362-2244

Hope Center for Neurological Disorders
Department of Neurology, Campus Box 8111
Washington University School of Medicine
660 S. Euclid Avenue
St. Louis, MO 63110