London, Ontario – July 25, 2011 – The Ontario Rett Syndrome Association Board of Directors has unanimously approved the funding of a $25,000 Research Grant to Dr. Yaron Finkelstein, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Toronto and staff physician at The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto.
Dr. Finkelstein’s research grant proposal submission, entitled Dose-Response Efficacyand Safety Analysis of Recombinant Human IGF-1 in Girls with Rett Syndrome, was evaluated by O.R.S.A.’s Research Advisory Committee. This committee is comprised of prominent neurologists, geneticists and scientists from across Canada assisted by members of O.R.S.A.’s Board of Directors. Dr. Finkelstein’s project is a collaborative venture with Boston Children’s Hospital. Additional investigators involved include Matt Gregas, PhD, Ingrid Holm, MD, MPH, Omar Khwaja, MD, PhD, Leonard Rappaport, MD and Mriganka Sur, PhD.
The intent of the Ontario Rett Syndrome Association Research Grant Program is to identify and fund professionals who are committed to conducting novel, emerging or innovative research in areas relevant to the cure, cause, prevention, improved treatment and/or understanding of Rett Syndrome and its implications on society. The entire funding amount of this research grant was raised through donations and fundraising activities. O.R.S.A. wishes to support research excellence and the development of a wide scope of Rett Syndrome research across Canada.
About Rett Syndrome and the Ontario Rett Syndrome Association (O.R.S.A)
Rett Syndrome (RS) is a unique developmental disorder which begins to show its affects in infancy or early childhood. It is seen almost exclusively in females, although it can occur rarely in boys. It is found in all racial and ethnic groups throughout the world. The Ontario Rett Syndrome Association (O.R.S.A.) exists to ensure that children and adults with RS are enabled to achieve their full potential and enjoy the highest quality of life within their community.
2011 Research Grant Announcement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE