Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has announced a $100 million personal investment Alzheimer’s research – a major win for the fight against the disease, which is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States.

Forbes spoke with Cure Alzheimer’s Fund President and CEO Tim Armour about the announcement. “Funding of research for Alzheimer’s disease lags far behind the other top 10 illnesses. Bill Gates and his contributions to research of Alzheimer’s disease through private venture funding will help to elevate awareness of the disease and will make a true difference,” says Armour.

Gates is investing $50 million in the Dementia Discovery Fund, a private venture fund. He plans to invest an additional $50 million in start-up efforts over time.

We are optimistic that Gates’ sizeable commitment to the eradication of Alzheimer’s disease will act as a catalyst for further sizeable investments by others and we intend to actively encourage that and create the vehicles for doing so.

Read the full article from Forbes