PDCD is an inborn error of metabolism that prevents people from using food for cellular energy at the mitochondrial level. Without energy, the cells cannot function and eventually die. People with PDCD suffer from poor muscle tone, neurological damage, developmental delays, lethargy and organ damage. The elevated lactic acid levels caused by the cellular damage leads to life threating low blood pressure, vomiting, and high heart rate. The prognosis for children with PDCD is a life expectancy of about 3 years, although new research indicates that the actual prognosis is somewhat patient dependent and based on multiple variables.
Through outreach, philanthropy and advocacy, The Elizabeth Watt PDCD Research Fund will support research for Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex Deficiency
*Additional $25,000.00 available research grant to fund ongoing research
*Collaborating with experts to include PDCD on state Newborn Screening *Travel Grant Program
*Continued community fundraising efforts worldwide
The Elizabeth Watt PDCD Research Fund provided $75,000.00 in funding to Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital allowing the team to complete their PDCD research project.
We are so proud to support the work of Dr. Jirair K. Bedoyan and his team, researching and creating targeted treatments for PDCD. This ground breaking research is aiming to restore the function of the Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex through small molecular therapy. His work in integral in placing PDCD on the RUSP.
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