Scientists Hauser, Ascherio win $3M Breakthrough Prize for MS research

Dr. Stephen Hauser from UCSF and Harvard's Alberto Ascherio received the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences for their groundbreaking research on multiple sclerosis (MS), which has transformed understanding of the disease and led to innovative treatments. Their work identifies B-type white blood cells as key contributors to MS, challenging the prevailing belief that T-type cells were primarily responsible for the damage. This has facilitated the development of new therapies that significantly reduce MS attacks when started early. In a related event, David Liu of the Broad Institute also won a Breakthrough Prize for his advancements in gene editing technologies, including base and prime editing, which enhance the potential for treating various genetic disorders. Liu plans to donate his prize money to support struggling research labs amid looming federal funding cuts to science. The recognition of these scientists underscores the importance of continued investment in foundational science to foster medical breakthroughs.