It is characterized by changes in the airways and, most importantly, destruction of lung tissue, chronic inflammation and loss of
elasticity in the main parts of the lung. COPD progressively reduces the critical transfer of oxygen into the bloodstream and the removal of carbon dioxide. In 2020, COPD is projected to rank fifth, worldwide, in burden of disease according to a study published by the World Bank/World Health Organization. Surprisingly, there is no existing therapy to halt the destruction of lung tissue or to improve lung function. All current therapies focus on symptom relief as the patient’s health consistently declines. THE CAMPAIGN
This fundraising project (2.1 Million) will increase awareness and significantly advance research from Indiana University toward the development of curative therapies for COPD. The proposed research will focus on halting the loss of lung tissue and generating new tissue through adult stem cell therapy in COPD patients. THE SCIENCE
The study will focus on two patented technologies out of IU Medical School, an antibody that stops the progression of COPD and an adult stem cell treatment that helps regenerate tissue. The purpose of the campaign is to identify the best way to advance these technologies into a small clinical trial. The initiative will begin with a summit of the best minds in these two fields, and based on the discussions/findings of the group, lead to a small, compassion-based, FDA-approved clinical trial. ADVISORY BOARD
The Role of the Advisory Board will be to guide the fundraising effort and leverage connections to bring awareness to this worthy cause. THE FOUNDATION
The Stop COPD campaign is the primary 2014 initiative of the Cell Therapy Foundation (CTF), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established in 2007. CTF works to improve public health through the support of adult stem cell awareness, research and education. Are you willing to help bring the Gift of Breath? Jan Byars, Campaign Director
315 W. 10th Street, Suite 253
Indianapolis, IN 46202
P: 937.321.5016
Jan@StopCOPD.org
www.celltherapyfoundation.org, www.StopCOPD.org
