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Scientific Accomplishments in the past 10 years James R. Connor, Ph.D. Chair Scientific Advisory Board Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation Funded Applications to the RLSF l 1997 n l Since then total awarded funds is n l Awarded $10,000 to support research $1,161,984 24 projects funded n 20 of those presented last evening u u Mix of junior and more senior investigators Funded research published in peer reviewed journals What have we discovered since 1997? Epidemiology studies have taken RLS from a NORD to a household name A prominent sleep disorder Autopsy studies show RLS brains differ from controls No pathology but biochemical based disorder There is a biological basis for RLS Established a brain bank What have we discovered since 1997? Biomarkers for RLS Different protein profiles in the CSF in RLS Serum ferritin levels indicate iron disruption and support studies using IV iron Lymphocytes from RLS patients have a different profile of iron proteins Biomarker profiles suggest early and late onset RLS may have different biological basis MRI studies reveal consistently reveal lower brain iron in RLS Imaging studies on dopaminergic system What have we discovered since 1997? Exploration of potential animal models Section V on Tuesday Dietary models, lesion models, genetic models dogs, cats and flies Posters Genetic studies on mice searching for gene profiles that predict iron content or dopamine levels can inform the human studies What have we discovered since 1997? Genetics of RLS Internationally renowned groups involved Similar to the epidemiology studies-- Common findings are encouraging Insights into familial RLS Early versus late onset RLS Use genetic findings to inform the development of animal models What has our research accomplished since 1997? Established a biological basis for RLS Genetic studies providing potential insights into familial RLS Suggested or at least supported ideas related to treatment strategies More to come Empowered the patients Take our publications to their physicians and tell the docs their symptoms are real With profound gratitude for patient support Brain Donation program Tissue samples CSF Blood Genes 30 posters on new research directions 5:30-6:30 Today South Dining Terrace/McAuley Hall Wine and Cheese