From left Drs. Thomas Langan, Yungki Park, M. Laura Feltri, Pablo Paez, and Lawrence Wrabetz of the Hunter James Kelly Research Institute
Researchers at UB’s New York State Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics & Life Sciences (CBLS) are committed to fighting neurodegenerative diseases, which damage or destroy neurons in the brain. Among the most devastating neurodegenerative diseases are those affecting myelin, an electrically insulating material essential to the proper functioning of the nervous system.
Located inside the CBLS, the Hunter James Kelly Research Institute focuses on basic research related to myelin and its diseases; and clinical research dedicated to providing better diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic options for Krabbe disease and leukodystrophy patients.
The work of five highly specialized laboratories is related to the mission to develop a multi-disciplinary approach to understand how myelin is formed, how axons and myelin are damaged in disease and how they may be repaired. In addition, the institute provides a range of activities and services designed to support both those suffering from Krabbe disease and leukodystrophies and the public at large.
Clinical activities include:
Newborn screening
The Worldwide Krabbe Registry
Awareness programs
Clinical care