New sources of funding are constantly required in a very competitive environment.  We need help from people like you to maintain the great services we provide.

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Finding a Cure - Right Here in Alberta

Would you like to know that your donation will go to help your friend, your neighbor, or even yourself?  The Lupus Society of Alberta offers grants for research being done right here in the province - and it has paid off!  A remarkable discovery was recently announced by the recipient of one of those grants - The University of Calgary Faculty of Medicine.  The University has been involved with lupus research since the early 1970s.

Historically, there has been one strong indicator in the diagnosis of lupus.  These double-stranded DNA, or anti-dsDNA, were also a possible warning for the development of kidney problems as a result of the lupus diagnosis.

But recently Clark Whitehead, a graduate student working at the University with Dr. J.B. Rattner, identified a new antibody called ASE-1.  This antibody was found in about 22% of lupus patients, and has shown to be an indicator of future lung trouble.  Another interesting finding was that the two antibodies (ASE-1 and dsDNA) rarely appear in one patient.  This provides a new indicator in determining a lupus diagnosis.  Also, because doctors will know these antibodies can be a signpost for organ involvement they can closely monitor for lung-related health issues.

The Lupus Society of Alberta collaborated in the funding of this research and would like to continue to work with the University of Calgary on the path to a cure.  This can only be done with support from people like you.

Please contact the LSA at 1-888-242-9182 in Alberta to make a donation.

The Lupus Society of Alberta is a charitable organization registered with the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency, #11924 3343 RR001.  Tax receipts are issued for donations of $10.00 or more.