Go Hawkeyes

This month's BDSRA newsletter explained that a recent study at the University of Iowa used gene therapy to transfer enzymes across the blood-brain barrier, proving effective in treating mice with lysosomal storage disorders.  News like this means there's a chance.

***To simplify a complicated concept, the blood brain barrier is really just that, a barrier that keeps bad things in the blood away from the brain. (bad things = bacteria, viruses, toxic medicine, etc.)  At the same time, the blood brain barrier keeps good things in the brain.  (good things = neurotransmitters, hormones, etc.) It's tricky to get some good things, like medicine the body needs, into the brain.  Sometimes diseases, like Batten, seem simple to remedy: there is one enzyme the body doesn't make... give the child that enzyme and all is well!  But complexity begins with whether or not a scientist can readily reproduce the missing enzyme and continues with getting that enzyme into affected neural cells. 
That's what is so amazing about this research from the Hawkeye state!  They have successfully transmitted enzymes into brain cells in mice with lysosomal storage disorders.  Can I get a OH IO-WA?!

 CEB, Iowa trip, March 2008 (borrowed paci.  Obvi.)

Last month, two challenge grants were offered to BDSRA to help fight Infantile Batten disease, the form of Batten that Celia is affected by. Garrett's Wings and Hayden's Hope each committed matched funds, up to $25,000, for contributions to infantile Batten Disease research before February 1, 2010. These grant opportunities, coupled with donations, gives BDSRA a chance to raise $100,000 for vital research projects.  And research, like what's being done in Iowa, may soon give children like Celia a chance at life.

Consider making a contribution to BDSRA as a Valentine gift for someone you love.  But please do it before the match deadline (2.1) and please be sure that you designate your donation for the infantile research grant.  
BDSRA 166 Humphries Dr. Reynoldsburg OH 43068 or BDSRA.org
The only time we won't be rooting for the Hawkeyes will be on Saturday, November 20th 2010 at Kinnick Stadium.  On that day, the Hawkeyes won't stand a chance... The other 364 days of the year, we love every thing about the Hawkeye state.
Andy

PS. The Buckeyes handed it to the Hawkeyes last night in roundball... Go Bucks!