Gilbert Family Foundation Funds Study to Understand Vision Loss from NF1-Optic Pathway Glioma

Author: Gilbert Family Foundation

Published On: 10/18/2021

The Gilbert Family Foundation, a private nonprofit established by Jennifer and Dan Gilbert to accelerate a cure for neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), today announced funding of a new $5.4 million clinical study. The study, to be led by investigators at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Stanford University School of Medicine, aims to understand the mechanisms of vision loss caused by NF1-associated optic pathway gliomas, or NF1-OPGs.

Nearly 20% of children with NF1 will develop an OPG, a tumor located along the visual pathway, which can cause permanent vision loss ranging from mild deficit to complete blindness. In April 2019, the Gilbert Family Foundation launched its Vision Restoration Initiative to fund research focused on developing innovative therapies that either repair or replace damaged visual systems caused by NF1-OPGs.

“One in five NF1 patients develop OPGs, and many end up with chronic vision loss, a symptom that can have devastating effects on quality of life. We’re working to put an effective cure for NF1-OPG-related vision loss and blindness within reach,” said Jennifer Gilbert, co-founder of the Gilbert Family Foundation. “This study is a major milestone for our Vision Restoration Initiative as we strive to unlock life-changing therapies and support future research.”

Read the full release here.