Understanding the Brain — and Brain Injuries

Currently there is no cure for the often permanently disabling damage of brain trauma. But in April of this year, the White House announced an expansive initiative to explore brain function, map its circuitry and develop new ways to address brain injury and diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) was announced by President Obama in April of this year. The President hopes to spark innovation that will help current patients prevent future brain injury and provide long-term job opportunities. By plumbing the depths of how we think, it is hoped this ambitious project will lead to scientific development on the level of our quest to reach the moon more than 43 years ago.

Initial research monies will go to:

• Approximately $50 million will be routed to The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to develop innovative technologies based on discoveries in brain structure and function
• The National Institutes of Health (NIH) will receive approximately $40 million to assist with research and resource development
• The National Science Foundation (NSF) will fund research in the physical, social, biological and behavioral sciences with approximately $20 million in start-up funds

This is an initiative for our times that seeks to help the world without by finding answers within. Time will tell if, like many other great ideas, the results fall short of the vision. For victims of brain injury, while new science helps each year, another giant leap for mankind could give hope where currently there is none.

If you or a loved one suffers head or brain injury, always seek experienced legal counsel.