Shu Lab – Retinal Research Group, UNSW SOVS

In a significant step toward promoting health equity and advancing research, Dr. Daisy Shu, a distinguished scientist, was a prominent guest at the recent BrightFocus Foundation Congressional Briefing on Health Equity. The event took place as part of the organization’s 50th-anniversary celebration, aptly tagged “Bold Research for a Better Tomorrow.”

Watch the YouTube recording of the congressional briefing here: https://www.brightfocus.org/news/brightfocus-foundation-hold-congressional-briefing-june-14

A Bipartisan Call for Health Equity

The BrightFocus Foundation’s Congressional Briefing, titled “Health Equity Begins in the Lab: Future Breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s, Macular Degeneration, and Glaucoma Research Depend on Robust Funding and Clinical Trial Diversity,” brought together a panel of scientists, thought leaders, and advocates, alongside key policymakers. The central theme revolved around the critical need for increased research funding and diversity in clinical trials. These factors are essential to ensure that medical advancements benefit a broader spectrum of society, leaving no one behind.

The Honorary Co-Chairs

The event was graced by a group of distinguished honorary co-chairs, including Senators Mike Braun (R-IN), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), as well as Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Jim Clyburn (D-SC), Tom Cole (R-OK), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Raul M. Grijalva (D-AZ), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Rob Wittman (R-VA), and Del. Stacey Plaskett (D-USVI). Their bipartisan support underscores the urgency of addressing health equity through research and funding.

Dr. Daisy Shu’s Notable Contribution

Dr. Daisy Shu, known for her groundbreaking work in the field, was invited to contribute her expertise to this prestigious event. Her involvement extended beyond the congressional briefing, as she was also a key participant in the “Cocktail with the Scientists” event at the BrightFocus 50th Anniversary Gala. Dr. Shu shared the stage with other distinguished scientists, including Ganesh Babulal, MSCI, Oleg Butovsky, PhD, and Thomas V. Johnson III, MD, PhD. Each expert brought unique insights to the table, showcasing the collaborative spirit of scientific inquiry.

Deciphering the Interplay Between Inflammation and Metabolism in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Dr. Shu’s topic of discussion at the gala was “Deciphering the Interplay Between Inflammation and Metabolism in Age-Related Macular Degeneration.” Her research in this area has been groundbreaking, shedding light on the intricate relationship between inflammation and metabolism in the context of this vision-threatening disease. By exploring these connections, Dr. Shu and her colleagues are opening new doors to potential treatments and therapies.

A Bright Future Ahead

The BrightFocus Foundation’s commitment to fostering health equity and supporting innovative research is commendable. Dr. Daisy Shu’s involvement in this initiative, along with her participation in the Gala’s “Cocktail with the Scientists” event, underscores her dedication to advancing our understanding of age-related macular degeneration and related diseases. Together, we look forward to a brighter, healthier future, where scientific breakthroughs benefit everyone, irrespective of background or circumstance. #HealthEquity #ResearchMatters #BrightFocusFoundation #BoldResearch