2BCured is happy to announce that Prof. Shai Berlin and Dr. Tali Garin-Shkolnik have received the prestigious MAVRI Biomedical Research Grant from the Israel Science Foundation (ISF) for their work to develop transformative therapies for GRIN2B-related neurodevelopmental disorders.

MAVRI, Israel’s National Accelerator of Biomedical Research, is a highly competitive program that combines major scientific recognition with exceptionally generous multi-year funding to accelerate promising biomedical research. The award recognizes the program’s scientific strength, translational potential and substantial progress across two complementary therapeutic pathways.

The first, led by Prof. Berlin of the Technion Medical school, focuses on GRIN2B gene supplementation, using brain-crossing viral vectors to deliver a functional copy of the gene to the brain via a simple intravenous injection. The team has successfully packaged and delivered the unusually large GRIN2B gene and demonstrated its expression in preclinical models. The second, led by Dr. Garin-Shkolnik from Rambam Health Care Campus         , focuses on CRISPR-based gene editing to correct disease-causing variants at their genetic source, potentially offering a precise solution for patients whose mutations may not be adequately addressed by gene addition.

The program combines patient-derived cellular models, neuronal systems and brain organoids with animal models to assess efficacy, delivery, safety and clinical potential.

For 2BCured, the award marks an important milestone and recognizes the multidisciplinary collaboration led by Prof. Berlin and Dr. Garin-Shkolnik. Most importantly, it brings the field closer to disease-modifying treatments for Individuals affected by GRIN2B-related neurodevelopmental disorder.