Biotech Values

[DewDiligence]

Re: GTCB (tangentially)

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) conference
to be held next week. AAT deficiency is
GTCB’s most important clinical program
after ATryn.

http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/060124/fltu018.html?.v=31

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Scientific Meeting on Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and Other Liver Diseases Caused by Aggregated Proteins

Experts From Around the World to Convene in Atlanta

MIAMI, Jan. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The Alpha-1 Foundation, in conjunction with the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) has organized a Basic Research Single Topic Conference on Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and Other Liver Diseases Caused by Aggregated Proteins on January 26-28, in Atlanta, GA. Other sponsors include the National Institutes of Health -- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, and Office of Rare Diseases -- and American Liver Foundation.

"This is a novel gathering of scientists and clinicians in related areas to focus on the important emerging topic of the molecular pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches to the hepatotoxicity associated with the inherited metabolic disorder Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency," says William F. Balistreri, M.D., Director, Pediatric Liver Care Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Dr Balistreri is conference co-director with Drs. David Perlmutter and Bruce Trapnell.

The objectives of the conference are to understand the molecular biology of protein folding, the role of the protein degradation system, and the consequences of misfolding of specific proteins seen in several clinical disorders. Participants will discuss the current concepts of the molecular mechanisms responsible for liver injury in patients with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. This conference will highlight studies and future research opportunities which may help to define molecular approaches underway to develop effective therapies to treat the liver manifestations of disorders involving protein misfolding.

"We are pleased that Aaron Ciechanover, M.D., D.Sc., the 2004 Nobel Prize Winner in Chemistry, will be a featured presenter," says John Walsh, President and CEO of the Alpha-1 Foundation. "This Workshop will build upon the work of the Foundation's previous scientific conferences and the significant recent advances in the understanding of AAT Deficiency." For a full agenda and information, visit: http://www.aasld.org .

The AASLD is a leading organization of scientists and healthcare professionals committed to preventing and curing liver disease.

The Alpha-1 Foundation is dedicated to providing the leadership and resources that will result in increased research, improved health, worldwide detection and a cure for Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1). Alpha-1 is a genetic disorder that can cause liver and lung disease in children and adults. ( http://www.alphaone.org )

The American Liver Foundation is the nation's leading nonprofit organization promoting liver health and disease prevention. ( http://www.liverfoundation.org )
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