The Parkinson’s research community mourns the passing of Nir Giladi, MD, a distinguished neurologist and globally recognized leader in movement disorders whose life’s work advanced our understanding of Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Dr. Giladi served as the chairman of the Neurological Institute at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, full professor and incumbent of the Sieratzki Chair of Neurology at Tel Aviv University’s Sackler School of Medicine and director of the Aufzien Center for the Treatment and Prevention of Parkinson's Disease. In addition to his clinical and academic achievements, Dr. Giladi was a dedicated leader in public health, serving as the Medical Professions Ombudsman for Israel’s Ministry of Health. His pioneering contributions spanned more than two decades with a focus on gait disturbances, freezing of gait (FOG) and the genetics of Parkinson’s.
Over the course of his career, he contributed to more than 800 research papers, an indication of his impact on science.
A key focus of his career was unraveling the prodromal stages of PD — the earliest phases that occur even before a formal diagnosis. Driven by his dedication, Dr. Giladi worked to identify key biological markers that could enable early detection and predict disease progression. His transformative collaboration with MJFF through the LRRK2 Cohort Consortium advanced our understanding of the LRRK2 mutation, shedding light on why some people with this genetic variant develop Parkinson’s while others do not.
Dr. Giladi also leaves an enduring legacy in the study and treatment of freezing of gait — one of the most challenging motor symptoms of Parkinson’s. His groundbreaking research uncovered critical insights into the mechanisms underlying FOG and explored innovative interventions to improve mobility and quality of life for people living with the disease.
"Dr. Nir Giladi was a remarkable leader whose work embodied scientific excellence, deep compassion for patients and an unwavering commitment to advancing care,” said Sohini Chowdhury, chief program officer, MJFF. “His groundbreaking contributions have laid the foundation for future discoveries and continue to inspire researchers worldwide. His passing is a profound loss to the scientific community and all who had the privilege of working alongside him."