AHCF Funds $250,000 Grant to Vanderbilt University

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Feb. 9, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In honor of rare disease month, we are pleased to announce the funding for the second half of our $250,000 grant, awarded in September 2015.  The research project, "Molecular Physiology and Pharmacology of ATP1A3 Mutations in AHC" was funded with the support of the Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood Foundation (AHCF) in the amount of $120,000 and the Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood Ireland (AHCI) in the amount of $5,000.  This project is conducted at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine under the direction of Dr. Kevin Ess and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago under the direction of Dr. Alfred George.  Dr. Ess stated, "The very generous donation by the AHCF and AHCI will enable us to determine mechanisms used by specific ATP1A3 mutations that cause AHC. Our experiential approach was designed to most quickly identify disease pathways as well as potential therapeutics that can help those afflicted with AHC."

"This is where the research gets really exciting!  Work is finally being done on potential drug treatments for our kids," said AHCF President Lynn Egan.

AHC is a rare disorder that causes sporadic episodes of paralysis, painful dystonia, delayed development and over 50% have epilepsy.  It has been found in less than 1000 people worldwide but is believed to affect far more patients.  This disorder typically begins prior to 18 months of age, but despite the name, it lasts throughout one's life.

Founded in 1993, the AHCF is a nonprofit organization focused on finding a treatment/cure for Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood while offering support and education to the hundreds of families afflicted with the disease worldwide.  

For more information or to donate, visit ahckids.org. AHCF can also be found on Facebook and Twitter.

SOURCE Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood Foundation

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http://www.ahckids.org