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Alpha-1 Symposium at American Thoracic Society International Conference

The 2013 American Thoracic Society International Conference being held from May 17th – 22nd in Philadelphia is one of the largest gatherings of lung, critical care, and sleep clinicians and researchers in the world, and highlights the latest information on the diagnosis and treatment of all respiratory disorders. More than 12,000 lung, critical care and sleep professionals from around the world are attending the 2013 International Conference, including renowned experts and leaders in Alpha-1.

The Alpha One Foundation were delighted to be invited to present 3 studies from our centre at Beaumont Hospital, and a further 5 studies on Alpha-1 are being presented by the Department of Medicine and the McElvaney group. This provides an opportunity for us to showcase the work being done in Ireland, and also learn about the very latest developments in the diagnosis and treatment of Alpha-1.
The landmark discovery of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency was 50 years ago in 1963, and to mark this the ATS will host a special Wednesday symposium, "Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: The Next 50 Years." Read More
 
Identification and characterisation of novel pro-inflammatory proteases that excerbate lung disease associated with Z alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Monday, 24 November 2008 12:25

Poster presentations

DA Bergin, Greene CM, Taggart CC, O’Neill SJ and McElvaney NG. Activation of the EGFR by Human Neutrophil Elastase. Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Research Day, RCSI St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin, April 2006. DA Bergin, CM Greene, CC Taggart, EE Sterchi, SJ O’Neill, NG McElvaney.
 

What is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin?

Alpha-1 antitrypsin is an important protein produced by the liver, which is released into the bloodstream and travels to the lungs. Once inside the lungs it provides protection from the destructive effects of infections and harmful irritants, particularly tobacco smoke.

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1) is a genetic condition which, along with cystic fibrosis, is the commonest genetic lung disease in Ireland. It severely affects more than 2,000 people nationally, with another 10,000 individuals also at risk of lung and liver disease. It is the only proven genetic risk factor for COPD.