The largest annual prize for neuroscience has been awarded to four scientists for their research on migraine studies, using animal models.
The Brain Prize 2021 went to Lars Edvinsson (Lund University, Sweden), Peter Goadsby (King’s College London, UK), Michael Moskowitz (Harvard Medical School, USA) and Jes Olesen (University of Copenhagen, Denmark).
Their research revealed the causes of migraine and has led to preventive treatments such as the drug erenumab.
The scientists studies in cats, rats, dogs, cattle and mice were used to gain an understanding of this disorder, as highlighted in an article by Speaking of Research.
The Brain Prize is awarded by the Lundbeck Foundation - a commercial foundation whose purpose is to strengthen brain health in Denmark and to develop the Danish business sector.
“I think the important thing about this research is that it shows a neuroscience-based approach has value and that bench and bedside research married together has the ability to change clinical practice,” said prize-winner Peter Goadsby.
This week is also Brain Awareness Week (15 – 21 March) - a global campaign to increase public awareness of the progress and benefits of brain research.