A new facility dedicated to the study and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases is set to open in San Antonio, Texas, in December 2025. The $100 million Center for Brain Health aims to revolutionize how conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are diagnosed, treated, and researched. This ambitious initiative is spearheaded by the Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases, led by founding director Sudha Seshadri, MD, DM.
In an effort to create a comprehensive hub for both patients and researchers, Seshadri emphasized the importance of gathering essential resources in one location. “We are trying to bring together in this one space all that we need for top-quality research, and all that patients and families have told us they need to live the best possible life they can,” she stated.
Comprehensive Care and Advanced Technology
The Center for Brain Health will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including the most powerful medical imaging device in South Texas, a 7-tesla MRI. This advanced imaging technology allows for enhanced resolution, enabling medical professionals to observe critical areas such as the brain stem—where diseases like Parkinson’s often originate. “You can see areas like the brain stem,” Seshadri explained. “The brain stem has tiny nuclei called the locus coeruleus, which is where Alzheimer’s begins.”
In addition to advanced diagnostics, the Center will offer twelve infusion suites where patients can receive the latest Alzheimer’s medications, which require intravenous delivery. Patients will also have access to various therapeutic services, including physical therapy, art therapy, and music therapy, all within the same facility. Seshadri highlighted the convenience for those traveling from distant locations, stating, “If they have come down from Austin for two days, or from Corpus Christi for two days, they can get this done on day one and day two and go back.”
Support for Caregivers and Collaborative Efforts
Recognizing the critical role of caregivers, the Center will provide educational resources and support tailored to their needs. This holistic approach underscores the commitment to improving quality of life for both patients and their families.
Seshadri expressed optimism about the potential impact of the new facility, saying, “I think San Antonio is well on its way to being a city that changes what we know about dementia and how we treat it.” She acknowledged the importance of collaboration, stating, “We know that we cannot do it alone in San Antonio; we need to work with all the wonderful people all across the world.” Her extensive experience over the past sixty years has led her to recognize a unique spirit of innovation and collaboration in the San Antonio community.
As the December opening approaches, the Center for Brain Health stands poised to become a pivotal resource in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases, promising to enhance both research and patient care in South Texas and beyond.
