Science for the benefit of health & medicine.
Research at the Weizmann Institute of Science has led to improved health and better medicine for people everywhere. Weizmann scientists discovered the basis of amniocentesis and new fertility treatments; discovered Copaxone® and Rebif®, today two of the frontline treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS); and developed a technology used in advanced medical imaging scans. They are creating diabetes vaccines and flu vaccines; using stem cells to grow new organs and T cells to treat damaged spines; and studying the origins of life and the origins of disease. Institute scientists are also advancing into the future of medicine: at its new Nancy and Stephen Grand Israel National Center for Personalized Medicine, treatments and therapies designed just for the patient will become a reality. From understanding the origins of disease to developing the basis for new medicines, the Institute’s basic science research is leading to a healthier world.
The Weizmann Institute’s Prof. Nava Dekel discovered that performing a uterine biopsy just before a woman undergoes in vitro fertilization (IVF) doubles the chances of a successful pregnancy. Her method is now being used by women all over the world.
Prof. Noam Sobel and his team of Weizmann Institute neurobiologists invented a device that enables quadriplegic persons to drive a wheelchair and locked-in patients to write using a computer – all by sniffing. The revolutionary, easy-to-use device is being studied for other uses as well.
Weizmann scientists have identified a single gene linking stress to obesity and diabetes, and have shown that the gene’s action in the brain has profound effects on the metabolism of the whole body.
Stem cell research by Weizmann’s Prof. Yair Reisner yielded the creation of functioning human kidneys in mice, offering hope for patients suffering from organ failure. The ability to “grow” new organs would save untold numbers of lives.
The Weizmann Institute’s Prof. Ada Yonath won the 2009 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for deciphering the structure and function of the ribosome, the cell’s protein factory. Her achievement helps clarify the exact mode of action of antibiotic drugs and is aiding in the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects 2.5 million people worldwide. Copaxone® and Rebif®, two FDA-approved drugs that are now frontline treatments for MS, were developed thanks to Weizmann research.
When you support Weizmann Institute scientists that inspire you with their vital work, and encourage others to join your effort, you become partners in the search for meaningful solutions to the world's greatest challenges.
People are living longer than ever – and so there are ever more cases of aging-related brain disorders. That’s why the Weizmann Institute has made the study of conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia, as well as normal decline, one of its very highest priorities.
From conception through the turbulent teens, any number of factors can turn the blessing of new life into something else entirely. That’s why Weizmann Institute scientists are using a whole range of approaches to better understand, prevent, and treat childhood diseases like birth defects, autism, even allergies.
©2020 American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science
