HWHF-supported researchers investigated how harmful algal bloom (HAB) exposure impacts brain health by studying stranded dolphins in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon. They found that levels of the neurotoxin 2,4-diaminobutyric acid (2,4-DAB) were 2,900 times higher in dolphin brains during HAB seasons than non-bloom periods. These dolphins exhibited over 500 altered genes associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), GABAergic synapse impairment, and structural brain changes. The findings show that repeated seasonal exposure to 2,4-DAB may accelerate AD-like pathology in marine mammals, with implications for other species as HABs intensify under climate change. To read the full article, visit this link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-025-08796-0

We are delighted to announce that the HWHF-backed documentary “Defend the Deep” has been recognized for several awards this year, including:

• Best Environmental at the Tokyo International Cinema Awards 2025
• Best Documentary Short at the Boston Indie Film Festival 2025
• Best Documentary Short at the Dallas Movie Fest in July 2025
• Marine Sciences Award at the International Ocean Film Festival 2025
• Official Selection at the International Ocean Film Festival 2025
• Official Selection at the Korea International Ocean Film Festival 2025
• Semi-Finalist at the Paris International Short Festival May 2025
• Official Selection at the Cannes Arts Film Fest 2025
• Ocean Life Documentary Award at the Nature Without Borders International Film Festival 2025

Additionally, the documentary has also been recently awarded by:

The award-winning documentary was directed by Richard Allen Charter and Liz Ruben.

The film can be viewed online on YouTube at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaQMfOzJg_4&t=2s