Autistic Disorder

Fundraising campaign will fuel research to change the course of tuberous sclerosis complex SILVER SPRING, Md., Oct. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Last night during the organization's 50th Anniversary Gala in New York City, the TSC Alliance® announced the public phase of a major fundraising campaign called the 50 Forward Fund. The effort aims to raise $40 million for research into tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a rare disease affecting 50,000 in the United States and 1 million worldwide. To date, the campaign has raised more than $18.5 million. "The 50 Forward Fund bolsters the momentum we've built since our founding while ambitiously looking forward to a future where everyone affected by TSC can live their fullest lives," said Kari Luther Rosbeck, TSC Alliance President & CEO. "The TSC Alliance is committed to further catalyzing research to create meaningful outcomes for people living with TSC and their families, and major investments in TSC research through this campaign will help us achieve this vision." Since 1984, the organization has cumulatively funded more than $37 million in TSC research and leveraged $505 million in additional Federal funding. Research accomplishments to date include: Backing the first-ever preventative clinical trial for epilepsy in the United States. Creating a Biosample Repository with more than 2,650 samples linked to clinical data in the Natural History Database. Building a Preclinical Consortium to help move new treatment ideas toward clinical trials. Funding basic research that ultimately contributed to FDA approval of three drugs specifically for TSC. The 50 Forward Fund is the TSC Alliance's largest research initiative in its 50-year history. It was designed as part of the organization's Research Business Plan to guide research efforts for TSC individuals with the following goals: Focusing research to better understand TSC and identify new treatments; Altering the course of the disease and improving quality of life through prenatal diagnoses and preventative treatments; and Educating medical professionals to achieve more rapid diagnosis and better treatment aligned with evidence-based standards of care. "Funding from the 50 Forward campaign will help the TSC Alliance expand our research investment in four key areas," explained Steven L. Roberds, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer. "These include our Natural History Database and Biosample Repository, Clinical Research efforts, Preclinical Consortium and Innovative Research grants program." Natural History Database and Biosample Repository: TSC affects everyone differently. To understand which drugs will be most effective for each individual, researchers need biosamples, clinical data and patient-reported outcomes. These require efficient collection processes, standardized analysis protocols and robust data management. Clinical Research: Clinical studies require extensive planning and collaboration. The TSC Alliance aims to alleviate the obstacles that stand in the way of efficient, effective and safe clinical trials. Preclinical Consortium: This project fills a critical research gap for standardized, rigorous testing of potential new TSC therapies prior to clinical trials. The innovative platform provides industry and academic members access to reproducible preclinical models and outcome measures, providing an unbiased platform for this critical stage in drug development. The Preclinical Consortium removes risks associated with developing new drugs and will encourage more companies to focus on treatments for the TSC community. Innovative Research: This effort's goal is to award more research grants annually, forge stronger connections between the top researchers around the world and bring stakeholders together at Innovation Workshops. "To achieve these ambitious research goals, we're counting on continued investment, collaboration and unwavering commitment of our community," Rosbeck continued. "The 50 Forward Fund will lead to research outcomes that will truly make a meaningful, positive impact on the lives of all those touched by TSC." To learn more about the 50 Forward Fund, view the campaign video and donate online, visit tscalliance.org/50-forward-fund today. About tuberous sclerosis complex Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a rare genetic disease that TSC causes tumors to grow in different organs and can impair their function, primarily the brain, heart, kidneys, skin and lungs. The disease is the leading genetic cause of epilepsy, including infantile spasms, and can also cause cognitive, behavioral and psychiatric disabilities; aggressive behaviors; and more. A strong correlation also exists between TSC and autism—an estimated 40-50% of individuals with TSC have autism spectrum disorder. TSC is a linchpin disease, meaning its genetic pathway also plays a role in other diseases and disorders. Advancements in TSC research may lead to a better understanding of autism, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, diabetes and cancer—diseases that affect more than 65 million people in the United States alone. About the TSC Alliance The TSC Alliance improves quality of life for everyone affected by tuberous sclerosis complex by catalyzing new treatments, driving research toward a cure and expanding access to lifelong support. For more information, visit tscalliance.org. Contact Jaye Isham Chief Outreach Officer TSC Alliance (301) 562-9890 [email protected] SOURCE TSC Alliance WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED

Event Details: Date: Friday, November 8, 2024Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDTLocation: The Tower Club, Vienna, VA MCLEAN, Va., Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Thought Leadership & Innovation Foundation (TLI), a not-for-profit organization that works at the nexus of science, technology and public health, is set to unveil the groundbreaking Autism Knowledge Gateway (AKG) at its upcoming "An Evening to Advance Autism Care" event. This exclusive gathering, taking place at The Tower Club in Vienna, VA, will bring together leading experts, clinicians, researchers and families impacted by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) for an evening of inspiration, learning and community building. “The Autism Knowledge Gateway is dedicated to improving basic medical care for autistic patients by enabling over 40,000 peer-reviewed articles in an AI-powered research hub,” says Shawn Murphy, vice president, TLI. “This resource will pave the way for a new era of autism care by delivering evidence-based research directly into the hands of those who need it most—clinicians, caregivers and patients.” This evening is about more than just raising awareness; it’s about uniting the autism community around what is already known about medical care for autistic patients, even while we wait for major research studies that are still underway. The AKG will give healthcare providers the critical resources they need to deliver better medical care to ASD adults and children, while offering hope and support to families seeking answers for their loved ones. The event will also feature a first look at the AKG platform, highlighting its key features, including: A curated collection of over 40,000 peer-reviewed medical articles related to autism and comorbid conditions.Extensive, categorized research database for easy searchability.AI-powered insights to summarize research findings and connect them to common symptoms experienced by patients.Secure discussions for clinicians to collaborate on best practices. Designed to improve treatment effectiveness and optimize clinician time, the AKG is positioned to transform ASD care by removing knowledge barriers that stand in the way of treating basic medical conditions that can impede quality of life for autistic patients. Keri Schoenbrun, development director, TLI, expresses her excitement for the event and the Gateway’s potential stating, "The Autism Knowledge Gateway is going to revolutionize how we approach autism care. It provides a critical link between research and real-world application, helping healthcare providers access the most up-to-date, peer-reviewed interventions. This event is a crucial step toward changing care conversations for autistic patients and their families." The launch of the AKG comes at a time when healthcare spending for children with ASD is significantly higher than for their non-autistic peers, and many providers feel ill-equipped to meet the complex needs of this patient population. The AKG aims to close this gap by providing comprehensive, up-to-date resources and peer-reviewed medical interventions to improve patient outcomes. Attendees will enjoy a plated dinner, cocktail hour and an engaging discussion, moderated by Bill Oldham, chairman and CEO, TLI. Alongside personal stories from patients and families, the discussion will include a range of perspectives across the community, including: Neena Haider, PhD, Associate Professor, Harvard Medical SchoolChris D'Adamo, PhD, Director of Research, Center for Integrative Medicine, University of Maryland School of MedicineLisa Ackerman, Executive Director and founder, TACADawn Loughborough, Parent and ASD Advocate Together, they will provide valuable insights into the challenges faced and the promising innovations shaping the future of autism care. For more information on how to participate in the event or to support the AKG, please visit Autism Knowledge Gateway. About TLIThe Thought Leadership & Innovation Foundation (TLI) is a not-for-profit organization that works at the nexus of science, technology and public health, innovating for superior prevention, treatment and outcomes for those facing life-altering medical diagnoses.TLI helps patients across the country and around the world find better healthcare outcomes. Visit www.thoughtfoundation.org and follow us on LinkedIn.

Day three of the world's largest startup and investment event unveiled transformational solutions across healthcare, space technology, and more at Dubai Harbour DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Expand North Star 2024, the world's largest startup and investment event, continued its journey of innovation on its third day at Dubai Harbour. Attendees from around the world witnessed revolutionary advancements in Applied AI and Deep Tech, demonstrating how these technologies are disrupting industries and solving complex global challenges. Continue Reading Day 3 of Expand North Star showcases groundbreaking solutions in Health Tech, Applied AI, and Deep Tech Integrated with GITEX GLOBAL, Expand North Star runs until 16 October, providing a powerful platform for over 1,800 exhibiting startups and more than 1,200 investors managing assets exceeding USD $1 trillion. Applied AI and Deep Tech Innovations Redefine Healthcare and Space Innovation Day three was a showcase of next-generation solutions in robotics, AI, and deep tech, providing a glimpse into the future of these sectors. Cutting through the noise were innovative startups such as China's RoboCT with their innovative exoskeleton technology, launching the UGo Rehab Exoskeleton, specifically designed for patients with lower-limb dysfunction, spinal cord injury, strokes, or cerebral palsy. Dr. Tian Wang, Founder and CEO of RoboCT Group, stated, "UGo enhances the rehabilitation process and delivers an effective walking training solution by integrating advanced sensors, data analysis, and research, empowering patients to rehabilitate more effectively at home." On the digital health frontier, JADE introduced a platform tailored for neurodivergent children, including those with ADHD, down syndrome, and autism. The app's sophisticated tracking of eye movements, cognitive response times, and memory functions equips healthcare professionals and educators with precise data to create personalised care and learning strategies. Meanwhile, scanO, a pioneering Indian-born deep tech company, is leading the way in developing generative AI models for predicting disease progression. The company showcased its flagship product, scanO air—the world's first contactless AI-powered robotic system for oral health screening—revolutionizing early detection and diagnosis. In space technology sector, Triggers-Reports from Mauritius introduced Triggers-sat, a satellite platform that provides high-resolution imaging and 3D modeling to assist businesses and governments in areas such as natural resource management and climate risk disaster monitoring. Rising International Participation from Asia and Latin America As the global innovation hub, Expand North Star continues to see international participation rise, showcasing how regions and countries are pushing boundaries with novel solutions. Tatiana Riera, COO of ApexBrasil, highlighted Brazil's expanding presence at Expand North Star: "From just 20 startups in 2019, we have expanded to 45 startups this year, along with four innovation hubs. Brazil is a great hub for fintech because of the diversity in social levels, so most of our unicorns come from fintech. We also focus a lot on Deep Tech, AI, and climate tech solutions since we have six biomes and need to take care of them. We have a company that uses natural foam to build soundproof material for construction and another company building silent tractors that run on renewable energy." Similarly, Singapore's SGTech made a noteworthy debut at Expand North Star, emphasizing the importance of cross-border collaboration in driving tech-driven solutions forward. Alex Ng, Exco Member, SGTech said: "Singapore's innovative startups are making a significant impact at Expand North Star 2024, with six outstanding companies exhibiting under the Singapore Pavilion. These companies showcase cutting-edge technologies across various sectors, including digital twins, industrial AI and biotech, with the event serving as a groundbreaking global launchpad for startups to foster valuable networking with investors." Africa's Path to Economic Growth With global participation continuing to flourish, the spotlight also turned towards Africa, where burgeoning tech ecosystems are paving the way for a new wave of entrepreneurs and innovators. H.E. Savannah Maziya, Minister, Ministry of Information, Communications & Technology, Eswatini, alongside other thought leaders, emphasised the importance of structured development to tackle unique market challenges and unlock Africa's economic potential. Celina Lee, CEO & Co-Founder, Zindi, South Africa, highlighted the trend of talent returning to Africa to start companies and create ecosystems that foster innovation and attract global corporations like Microsoft to set up labs in Ghana and Nairobi. Speaking on the challenges facing Africa, Olatunbosun Alake, Honorable Commissioner, Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Lagos State Government, Nigeria, said, "The greatest challenge in Africa is education. In Nigeria, if you look at the most educated parts, they show economic value, whereas in the north, where education levels are not as high, economic productivity is lower. There needs to be an African Renaissance of education funding across the board because if you drive education, educate, and enlighten people, people will change the environment." Across its four-day span, Expand North Star continues to shed light on the future of industries through defining events such as GITEX Impact, Fintech Surge, Future Blockchain Summit, and Marketing Mania. These events underscore how emerging technologies are transforming the way we live and are also playing a pivotal role in reshaping the future. Follow Expand North Star on Social Media: Facebook | X | Instagram | LinkedIn Hashtag: #ExpandNorthStar About Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC): A global business facilitator since 1979, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is home to the region's leading purpose-built convention and exhibition centre. DWTC provides a platform for connecting people, products, innovation and ideas from around the world through a dynamic calendar of international trade exhibitions and its own roster of sector leading mega events. As a designated free zone, complemented by award-winning commercial real estate, DWTC plays an integral role in Dubai and the region's growth story. Since its inauguration, DWTC has hosted over 6,000 events, with an estimated economic output of AED 248 billion, attracting over 38 million business visitors to Dubai. Photo: SOURCE Expand North Star WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED