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The HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology has received a $2.5 million gift to fund Alzheimer research. (File photo)

Alabama genetic scientists are beginning new research that could lead to earlier diagnosis and new treatments for Alzheimer disease.

The research, which involves sequencing the complete genetic makeup of 1,500 patients, is funded by a new, anonymous gift of $2.5 million to the HudsonAlpha Institute of Biotechnology in Huntsville.

"We are overwhelmed with gratitude and deeply humbled. This generous gift allows us to begin a unique Alzheimer disease project that has the potential to lead to earlier diagnosis and new treatments," said lead researcher Dr. Rick Myers, HudsonAlpha's president and science director.

Myers' team hopes to create an early "picture" of the disease, the institute said.

"HudsonAlpha has a rare opportunity to conduct truly groundbreaking research in Alzheimer disease through this project. What we learn could help us diagnose earlier, monitor treatments better and lead to drug discoveries for new treatments," Myers said.

The donation was made in December to the institute's M&M Fund. That fund had a goal of $4.3 million in gifts, and the institute said it is only $400,000 away.

That gives the institute access to 750 more patient samples. In order to finish research on the entire set of patients, the institute needs another $1.5 million.

"These diseases impact tens of millions of people every year, and their families as well. I believe we will change their stories through this work. It is an incredibly compelling reason to give," Myers said.