DPRIT Represents a Transformative Statewide Investment.
The MBHI DPRIT Resource Hub provides a centralized home for updates, internal processes, guidance, and support related to Texas’s new Disease Prevention & Research Initiative for Translational Neurodegeneration (DPRIT).
As Texas launches this landmark investment in brain health research, MBHI serves as UTMB’s coordinating center—keeping investigators informed of requirements, timelines, institutional procedures, and available resources.
This page will be updated regularly to ensure faculty and research teams have the information needed to prepare competitive DPRIT submissions.
What is DPRIT?
The Texas Disease Prevention & Research Initiative for Translational Neurodegeneration (DPRIT) is a statewide program supporting research aimed at preventing, diagnosing, and treating neurodegenerative diseases.
DPRIT prioritizes projects that accelerate translation from basic discovery to clinical impact, positioning Texas as a national leader in brain health innovation.
Focus Areas
Alzheimer's, Dementia, Parkinson's & Related Disorders
Basic, Translational & Early Clinical Research
Human-Relevant Models, Data Science & Technology Development
Clinical Cohorts, Registries & Prevention Studies
State Priorities
Improve Outcomes for Texans
Expand Clinical and Translational Capacity
Strengthen Collaboration Across Texas Research Institutions
Advance Early Detection and Prevention
What Does This Mean for UTMB?
Below is UTMB’s internal process for DPRIT applications, guiding investigators from the initial Notice of Intent (NOI) through eligibility review, advisory committee assessment, and development support.
Proposals then move to the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) for formal review before receiving final institutional sign-off and submission, providing a clear, step-by-step roadmap to help faculty navigate all required stages efficiently.

About the Forum
Join Dr. Giulio Taglialatela and Dr. Abbey Berenson for the DPRIT Faculty Forum, designed to support faculty in refining research ideas, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and positioning UTMB for upcoming DPRIT funding opportunities.
How It Works
Beginning in April, the forum features monthly sessions with brief faculty elevator pitches to encourage collaboration, align projects with DPRIT priorities, and support competitive proposal development.
Why Participate
The forum creates a collaborative space for investigators to connect, share expertise, and explore innovative approaches to brain health and neurodegenerative disease research.
Faculty Participation Opportunities
- Present a 5-minute research concept or idea
- Receive feedback from peers and leadership
- Identify potential collaborators across UTMB
- Align projects with DPRIT funding priorities
Upcoming Sessions
Schedule
3rd Monday of Every Month
Time
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Format
Hybrid: In Person & Microsoft Teams
2026 Sessions:
- July 20, 2026 – SHP/SON 1.102 Quad Room
- August 17, 2026 – SHP/SON 1.102 Quad Room
- September 21, 2026 – Basic Science Auditorium 2.212
- October 19, 2026 – Basic Science Auditorium 2.212
- November 16, 2026 – Basic Science Auditorium 2.212
- December 21, 2026 – Basic Science Auditorium 2.212
To schedule your 5-minute pitch, please contact Amanda Shetty at ajshetty@utmb.edu.
