Funded Year:
2005
Awarded to:
David Spanswick, Ph.D
Amount:
$20,000
Institution:
Department of Neuroscience, University of Warwick, UK
(Year 2 of this project)
In patients suffering from Prader-Willi syndrome, it has been shown that there is a greatly elevated level of a hormone known as ghrelin. This hormone is known to normally stimulate hunger and food intake. However, the levels of the circulating hormone leptin that signals the need to reduce food intake and increase energy expenditure is not similarly upregulated. Consequently, it is possible that the imbalance between these hormones is responsible for the insatiable appetite of Prader-Willi syndrome. It is feasible that if the effects of ghrelin could be blocked, these symptoms could be relieved.
Before this can become a reality, it is first necessary to fully appreciate how this hormone works to stimulate hunger. We believe it does so by acting upon a specific group of neurons in the brain. So far the actions of ghrelin on these neurons has not been studied because up to now they have been difficult to identify. However, the investigators have now resolved this problem and are in a position where they can explore how ghrelin works in these neurons to stimulate appetite. The long-term aim of these studies is to identify drugs which will regulate the action of this hormone and are therefore able to regulate the appetite in those individuals where it is over produced such as in the case of Prader-Willi syndrome.
2005
David Spanswick, Ph.D
$20,000
Department of Neuroscience, University of Warwick, UK
The Foundation for Prader-Willi Research (federal tax id 31-1763110) is a nonprofit corporation with federal tax exempt status as a public charity under section 501(c)(3).
The mission of FPWR is to eliminate the challenges of Prader-Willi syndrome through the advancement of research. High-quality research will lead to more effective treatments and an eventual cure for this disorder. By working together, we intend to free our loved ones from the burdens of PWS, allowing them to lead full and independent lives.
Foundation for Prader-Willi Research
Phone: 888-322-5487
Fax: 888-559-4105
Email: info@fpwr.org
FPWR
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Walnut, CA 91789
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