February 2004 

Julie Feldman MPH RD, Clinical Dietitian

As Valentines Day approaches, take the opportunity to tell the people around you how much you value their love, generosity, understanding of support.  Although it is wonderful to say thank you to those you love everyday, sometimes the moment escapes us as we are so busy with our everyday lives.

Moving Ahead

BCY LifeSciences Inc., announced that they are moving ahead with licensing of their new CF therapeutic DCF 987, which has been shown in Phase I and II clinical trials to improve FEV(1) and improve bacterial load in the CF patient.  For more information visit their website at www.bcylifesciences.com

Redasoft Corp. announced a donation of $100,000 in Software licenses for their unique Visual Cloning Software to the CF Foundation.  This will allow researchers who are studying molecular and genetic aspects of CF easy and effective research techniques.  This software is already being used to study the CFTR gene, P. aeruginosa, genetically engineered animal models of the disease and the use of antioxidants as therapy in CF.

Little Does Not Mean Small

A tiny nanowire sensor, smaller than the width of a human hair, may be the key to early detection of multiple genetic diseases.  This sensor, 1000 times more sensitive than conventional DNA tests is being developed at Harvard.  It is able to take a drop of blood from a pin prick and diagnose multiple genetic diseases including CF.  They anticipate this sensor being useful in the early detection of bio terrorism threats as well.

Help for your Tummy

Altus Biologics has announced they are proceeding with phase II in their development of TheraCLEC.  This new therapy will be used to treat the mal absorption that is associated with pancreatic insufficiency in CF patients.  Phase I clinical trials have already shown influence on protein and fat absorption with as little as one pill per day.  A lot better than the 5-15 pills many of you are taking now.

A Sweet Treat

When was the last time you enjoyed a bowl of puppy chow?  A sweet and salty, chewy and crunchy treat that is easy to make and fun to eat.  All you need is:

• 5-6 cups of dry Chex Cereal and Cheerios
• M & M's
• salted peanuts
• mini pretzels
• 7 ounces of melted white chocolate

Mix together, lay on a cookie sheet to harden and enjoy!