What does the month of May mean to you? With celebrations like Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day, and Memorial Day, it’s easy to think of May as the month of sunshiny awesomeness. Here at LTF, we recognize May as NF Month! Increasing the understanding and awareness of neurofibromatosis (NF) is a key component of our mission. So in honor of NF month, we are speaking up about the progress and importance of future scientific research regarding neurofibromatosis.
In case you forgot, here’s a little refresher about neurofibromatosis.
Neurofibromatosis…
is characterized by uncontrolled tumor growth on brain and spinal tissue
is the most common genetic disorder linked to a single gene
is manifested in 3 different ways (NF1, NF2, Schwannomatosis)
has a 50% chance of inheritance if a parent has the disorder
results from a spontaneous genetic mutation in 50% of all cases
is treatable, but not curable.
Although there is currently no cure, progress is being made!
One study revealed that children without a family history of neurofibromatosis tended to have parents who were older. Researchers in Dr. David Gutmann’s lab have found the learning problems commonly associated with NF1 patients may be caused by a difference in dopamine (a neurotransmitter correlating with memory deficits) levels in their neurons.
In order for progress to continue, we must strive for future funding in NF research. Advocating for 4 years and counting, LTF continues to urge government chairs to support federal research funding. In honor of NF month, we want YOU to spread the word and show your support for a brighter future in NF research.