January 2002 

Julie Feldman MPH RD, Clinical Dietitian

It is now the year 2002!  Although 2001 brought many trials and tribulations for the American people, our CF population enjoyed a successful and healthful year.  We are looking forward to another successful year in 2002.  If there is anything that you want to see in this years newsletters or at clinic, please let us know. 

New Home For Genetic Research

The congressional appropriation of 2.25 million dollars which was approved by President Bush on 11/12/01 will go toward the construction of an $80 million facility for genetics, cancer and biotechnology research at the University of Florida, Gainesville.  The new building, a proposed 355,000 square foot structure,  will house the major research and educational programs of the UF Genetics Institute, The UF Shands Cancer Cent4r and the UF-based Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research (ICBR).  Housing more than 800 scientists will allow for shared resources, an one of the first key human gene therapies that work is planned for includes CF amongst others.  This new home for genetic research should prove fruitful in many different areas.

Gene Vectors?

Do you know what a gene vector does?  Although it sounds complicated, the idea of gene vectors involves using healthy genes as a vehicle to deliver certain components to different body parts.  This allows for the correction of a genetic disorder or an alteration of the properties of problematic cells.  This research is costly and time restrictive, however the National Center for Research Resources (NCRR), a part of NIH, has announced the award of $2.65 million to establish five key locations.  These are: Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Instititue in Duarte Ca, Indiana University, Southern Research Institute and University of Florida.  Each location has different assignments to avoid multiple groups working on one task.  Another step towards the future.

Recipe Contest

Put your expertise of Scandishake to work!  Axcan Scanidpharm is having a recipe contest.  Submit your favority original Scandishake recipe and wining recipes will be published in a new Scandishake Recipe Book.  Recipes can be emailed at www.axcanscandipharm.com  Some recipes that made the last cookbook included caseroles and pies, so be creative!!!

New Reading

A new book is available to all that are interested.  It is entitled: Cystic Fibrosis in the 20th Century; People, Events and Progress.  For ordering information visit www.ronaldhousecle.org and click on Family Resource Center. 

How do you say Happy New Year with food?  You eat something totally healthy to help clense your system of all of those holiday treats.  Why not try a delicious salad to warm up your day, filled with healthy protein, vitamins, minerals and healthful omega-3 fatty acids!