November 16, 2015 – Austin, TX – Beyond Batten Disease Foundation is supporting research by Dr. Emyr Lloyd-Evans and his colleagues at the School of Biosciences at Cardiff University in Wales. The project explores a new hypothesis that has implications for several neurodegenerative diseases which exhibit excess Ca2+ levels, including Batten disease, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, ALS and other lysosomal storage diseases.
Similar to other neurodegenerative diseases, preliminary evidence shows excess Ca2+ present in juvenile Batten disease mouse models. These mice exhibit toxic Ca2+ levels, suggesting the CLN3 protein missing in patients with juvenile Batten disease plays a role in Ca2+ regulation. Dr. Lloyd-Evans and his colleagues are further studying this hypothesis and its implications. This project has the capacity to describe a previously unknown aspect of juvenile Batten disease pathogenesis, highlight new functions for CLN3, and develop a new therapeutic strategies for this disease.
ABOUT BEYOND BATTEN DISEASE FOUNDATION
Beyond Batten Disease Foundation (BBDF) is the world’s largest organization dedicated to funding research for a treatment or cure for juvenile (CLN3) Batten disease. Since its inception in 2008, BBDF has applied over $15.5 million towards juvenile Batten disease research by direct donations, leveraging donor-funded successes, and forming strategic partnerships. BBDF is spearheading a unique, cohesive strategy, incorporating independent scientific resources and collaboration with related organizations to drive research in juvenile Batten Disease. For more information, visit www.beyondbatten.org