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NIH Researcher Receives Prestigious Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research

November 2, 2016

Daniel Reich, M.D., Ph.D., recognized for his innovative ways of looking at the brain to advance knowledge of MS


Dr. Daniel Reich, a physician-scientist with the National Institutes of Health, has been selected as the winner of the 2016 Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research. Dr. Reich directs the Translational Neuroradiology Section within the Division of Neuroimmunology and Neurovirology of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Reich is a neurologist, neuroradiologist, and neuroscientist -- but you could also call him a “brain photographer.”
 
“I work on multiple sclerosis, and I do that by using MRI machines to take pictures of the brain, and the spinal cord,” said Reich. “That’s opened new doors into understanding how we might treat it, and prevent the disease.”
 
With his research group, Dr. Reich -- whose work is predominantly focused on human imaging research in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) -- has developed and evaluated an imaging approach that detects inflammation of the tissue layer that surrounds the brain, called the meninges. Reich has made several important observations, including showing two major patterns of lesion evolution, which can be used to assess the ultimate degree of tissue damage or recovery. This approach is now being considered for clinical trials of myelin repair therapies in MS.
 
“Dr. Reich’s novel approaches to imaging disease activity in people with multiple sclerosis are creating new pathways to better treatments,” said Dr. Timothy Coetzee, Chief Advocacy, Services and Research Officer at the National MS Society.
 
“Winning the Barancik Prize obviously means a lot to me as a researcher,” said Reich. “I’m really quite thrilled the committee found our work interesting, promising, and innovative.”

About the Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research
The Prize seeks to recognize and encourage exceptional innovation and originality in scientific research relevant to multiple sclerosis, with emphasis on impact and potential of the research to lead to pathways for the treatment and cure for MS, and scientific accomplishments that merit recognition as a future leader in MS research. The international prize is made possible by the generosity of the Charles and Margery Barancik SO Foundation, and is administered through the National MS Society.  

Watch a video on Dr. Reich's work and its impact on people with MS
Read more about the Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research

About Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.

About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.

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© 2024 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Its Identification Number (EIN) is 13-5661935.