Jeffrey Modell Foundation Hosts First Global Summit in Berlin

NEW YORK, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- 200 of the world's leading expert Immunologists from 78 countries, spanning 6 continents, convened in Berlin today for an historic scientific summit on Primary Immunodeficiencies (PI). The three day conference is being organized and hosted by the Jeffrey Modell Foundation (JMF), a global non-profit organization dedicated to PI research, physician education, patient support, public awareness, advocacy and newborn screening.

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Despite the fact that PI affects 10 million people worldwide, most of those affected are not aware of their disorder, and suffer with chronic, recurring, and sometimes life threatening infections.

The physicians are joined together by the Jeffrey Modell Centers Network and will share novel discoveries, innovative research, best practices, new treatment protocols, and explore regional challenges and successes in the field.

Main topics of discussion will include novel gene defects causing deficiencies in T and B cell development and function, advancing diagnostics, whole genome and exome sequencing, and innovative therapies such as bone marrow transplantation and gene therapy. Additionally, discussions will cover successful Network models which enrich collaboration in the areas of physician education and public awareness of PI.

The Foundation will also be announcing new research initiatives and enhanced continuing programs to support the efforts of the Network.

Vicki Modell, Co-Founder of JMF said, "We are on an historic journey and together we are creating meaningful interaction, cooperation, and new partnerships around the world. This collaborative gathering will foster collegiality of the Network and support the united purpose to further advancements in the field. Our physicians will proudly celebrate remarkable scientific accomplishments that will save lives and improve quality of life for those affected with Primary Immunodeficiencies all over the world."

About the Jeffrey Modell Foundation

Vicki and Fred Modell established the Jeffrey Modell Foundation in 1987, in memory of their son Jeffrey, who died at the age of fifteen from complications of Primary Immunodeficiency -- a genetic condition that is chronic, serious, and often fatal. JMF is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to early diagnosis, meaningful treatments and, ultimately, cures through research, physician education, public awareness, advocacy, patient support, and newborn screening.

For more information about PI, visit www.info4pi.org or email the Jeffrey Modell Foundation at [email protected].

Visit the Jeffrey Modell Foundation

Contacts:

Vicki and Fred Modell, Co-Founders
Jeffrey Modell Foundation
[email protected]
212-819-0200

SOURCE Jeffrey Modell Foundation