ADDF Marks Tenth Anniversary of Melvin R. Goodes Prize with Celebration in Stockholm, Sweden, Honoring Scientists Dedicated to Innovation in Alzheimer’s Research

The Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) recently celebrated a significant milestone in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease by hosting the tenth annual Melvin R. Goodes Prize event in Stockholm, Sweden. The event, which took place from September 8-10, 2024, was graced by the presence of Queen Silvia of Sweden and U.S. Ambassador to Sweden Erik Ramanathan. The Goodes Prize is a prestigious award that honors leading scientists for their groundbreaking contributions to Alzheimer’s research, reflecting the ADDF’s commitment to advancing innovative treatments and prevention strategies for this debilitating condition.

This year’s Goodes Prize was awarded to Henrik Zetterberg, a distinguished biomarker expert from Sweden. Over the past 15 years, Zetterberg has dedicated his career to developing biomarkers for Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. His work has been instrumental in enhancing our understanding of these conditions, paving the way for more effective diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions. The recognition of Zetterberg’s contributions underscores the importance of biomarkers in the early detection and treatment of Alzheimer’s, highlighting the critical role of scientific innovation in addressing this global health challenge.

The event featured a series of scientific lectures at the renowned Karolinska Institute, where previous Goodes Prize winners shared their insights and latest research findings. These lectures provided a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among leading experts in the field, fostering a spirit of collective endeavor in the quest for effective Alzheimer’s treatments. The participation of esteemed scientists and researchers from around the world underscored the international significance of the Goodes Prize and the global effort to combat Alzheimer’s disease.

Queen Silvia of Sweden, a long-time advocate for Alzheimer’s research and care, delivered remarks at the event, congratulating the scientists on their remarkable achievements. Her presence and support highlighted the importance of raising awareness about Alzheimer’s and the need for continued investment in research. Queen Silvia’s involvement added a royal touch to the proceedings, emphasizing the high regard in which the Goodes Prize and its recipients are held within the scientific community and beyond.

A special dinner and ceremony were held at the iconic Stockholm City Hall to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Goodes Prize. The event was a fitting tribute to the scientists who have dedicated their lives to understanding and combating Alzheimer’s disease. U.S. Ambassador to Sweden Erik Ramanathan and ADDF board co-vice chair and secretary Randal Sandler presented commemorative medals to the prize recipients, recognizing their outstanding contributions to Alzheimer’s research. The ceremony was a celebration of scientific excellence and a testament to the enduring impact of the Goodes Prize over the past decade.

The event brought together leaders from academia, industry, and philanthropy, creating a unique opportunity for collaboration and networking. By recognizing the achievements of top researchers and fostering connections between different sectors, the Goodes Prize event aimed to accelerate progress in the fight against Alzheimer’s. The presence of prominent figures from various fields underscored the multifaceted approach needed to address the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving scientific breakthroughs.

Leonard A. Lauder, co-founder of the ADDF, emphasized the foundation’s mission to address the urgent need for effective Alzheimer’s treatments. In his remarks, Lauder highlighted the significance of the Goodes Prize in supporting pioneering research and encouraging innovation. He called the gathering of top researchers and the support of their work through the Goodes Prize incredibly meaningful, reflecting the ADDF’s commitment to advancing the science of Alzheimer’s and improving the lives of those affected by the disease. Lauder’s words resonated with the audience, reinforcing the shared sense of purpose and dedication to the cause.

Ronald S. Lauder, also a co-founder of the ADDF, expressed his pride in the role the Goodes Prize has played in the battle against Alzheimer’s over the past decade. He acknowledged the significant contributions of each prize recipient, noting how their work has brought us closer to effective treatments and prevention methods. Ronald S. Lauder’s remarks highlighted the cumulative impact of the Goodes Prize on the field of Alzheimer’s research, showcasing the progress made and the potential for future advancements. His reflections on the past decade served as an inspiration for continued efforts in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

The Goodes Prize is named after Melvin R. Goodes, the former CEO of Warner-Lambert Company, who became an advocate for Alzheimer’s research following his diagnosis. The award celebrates innovation and perseverance in the quest for effective treatments for Alzheimer’s, honoring individuals who have made significant strides in advancing our understanding of the disease. The legacy of Melvin R. Goodes lives on through the prize, inspiring researchers to push the boundaries of scientific discovery and work towards a world without Alzheimer’s. The personal connection to Goodes adds a poignant dimension to the award, reminding us of the human impact of Alzheimer’s and the importance of finding a cure.

The recipient of the Goodes Prize is recognized for their work in advancing our understanding of Alzheimer’s mechanisms, biomarkers, or therapeutic strategies. This recognition not only highlights the individual’s contributions but also serves to inspire other researchers in the field. By shining a spotlight on innovative research, the Goodes Prize encourages continued exploration and experimentation, driving the scientific community towards new discoveries. The focus on mechanisms, biomarkers, and therapeutic strategies reflects the comprehensive approach needed to tackle Alzheimer’s, addressing the disease from multiple angles to develop effective solutions.

Dr. Howard Fillit, co-founder and chief science officer of the ADDF, stated that the Goodes Prize exemplifies the foundation’s commitment to advancing drug development for Alzheimer’s. He emphasized the importance of supporting early-stage research and innovative approaches to finding treatments. Dr. Fillit’s remarks underscored the ADDF’s role in bridging the gap between scientific discovery and clinical application, providing the necessary resources and support to translate research into real-world impact. His comments highlighted the critical need for continued investment in Alzheimer’s research and the potential for the Goodes Prize to drive meaningful progress in the field.

This year’s event being held in Sweden, home of the Nobel Prize, highlights the esteemed reputation of the Goodes Prize within the Alzheimer’s community. The choice of location underscores the international recognition of the prize and its recipients, positioning the Goodes Prize alongside other prestigious scientific awards. The connection to the Nobel Prize adds an additional layer of prestige to the event, reflecting the high standards of excellence upheld by the ADDF. The international setting also emphasizes the global nature of the fight against Alzheimer’s, showcasing the collaborative efforts of researchers worldwide in addressing this pressing health issue.

The event was attended by prominent Palm Beach residents and ADDF supporters, including Gary Lauder, Anita Cosgrove, Chip DiPaola, and others. Their presence demonstrated the broad base of support for Alzheimer’s research and the collective commitment to finding a cure. The involvement of these supporters highlights the role of philanthropy in advancing scientific research, providing the necessary funding and resources to drive innovation. The diverse group of attendees reflected the wide-reaching impact of Alzheimer’s and the shared determination to make a difference. Their participation in the event underscored the importance of community and collaboration in the fight against Alzheimer’s.