Dr. Larry Sherman of Oregon Primate Center to receive funding

For Immediate Release

MT FREEDOM, N.J./EWORLDWIRE/May 6, 2008 --- White matter abnormalities will be the focus of a one-year research grant to Larry Scott Sherman, Ph.D. awarded by the Sturge-Weber Foundation (SWF). A senior scientist at the Oregon National Primate Research Center, Division of Neuroscience in Portland, Ore., Sherman will use a mouse cell culture model to investigate white matter abnormalities which are present in Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS), are an early hallmark of SWS and are strongly correlated with cognitive decline.

"Families coping with severe cognitive decline may reap the benefits of results arising from Dr. Sherman's work. Understanding white matter abnormalities has the potential to spark further, widespread research into this devastating syndrome," said Karen L. Ball, SWF president and CEO.

Cognitive dysfunction, including mental retardation, is a significant concern for individuals with SWS. Recent findings suggest that cognitive difficulties in SWS patients are linked to the over-production of myelin, a substance that influences the speed at which nerve cells transmit their signals.

The study has the potential to identify new targets for SWS therapy.

SWS is a congenital neurological disorder with no known cause and no cure. SWS occurs in both males and females and in all racial groups. Characteristics of SWS include a facial port wine stain birthmark, seizure disorder and glaucoma.

Along with fostering research, the Sturge-Weber Foundation provides education, networking support and outreach for families and individuals coping with SWS. Formed in 1987, the Foundation is a not-for-profit foundation with an international membership.

Grant funds are provided by private contributions to the Sturge-Weber Foundation from SWF members nationwide, in part, during the Foundations annual Month of Awareness in May. Learn more online at 'http://www.sturge-weber.org'.

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CONTACT:
Anne Howard
The Sturge-Weber Foundation
1240 Sussex Turnpike
Randolph, NJ 07869
PHONE. 973-895-4445
FAX. 973 895-4846
EMAIL: ahoward@sturge-weber.com
http://www.sturge-weber.com

SOURCE: Sturge-Weber Foundation