NEWS RELEASE
May 28, 2009

(Brewer, Maine) – The Maine Institute for Human Genetics and Health is pleased to announce they have received funding from both the Foundation to Cure Melanoma and The Lafayette Family Foundation to further Melanoma research.

“Melanoma is an important medical issue especially in Maine. The gifts from Foundation to Cure Melanoma and the Lafayette Family demonstrate their commitment to finding new pathways for prevention and treatment options,” commented Claire Deselle, managing director for the Maine Institute for Human Genetics and Health.

In late April, representatives from the Foundation to Cure Melanoma and The Lafayette Family Foundation toured the Sylvan Road Lab facility and presented two checks to the Institute, $5,000 from The Foundation to Cure Melanoma and $7,750 from the Lafayette Family Foundation.

“The funding will be used to collect tissue and blood samples drawn from patients with melanoma.  These samples and their genetic information, combined with family history of exposures to possible DNA-damaging agents, will allow researchers to better understand why some skin cells progress to disease and others do not,” said Janet Hock, BDS, PhD, executive director for the Maine Institute for Human Genetics and Health.

The Maine Institute for Human Genetics and Health, a subsidiary of EMHS, supports clinical and translational research and education to decrease the risks of disease, and improve the health of Maine’s rural and dispersed communities. As a collaborative organization, the institute seeks opportunities to bring scientists and physicians across the state together to work in multidisciplinary teams. The Institute’s founding programs focus on research to help people living with cancer, neurological and psychiatric diseases, and skeletal diseases. Together, EMHS members combine resources and leadership so that Maine communities benefit from the best medical practices and healthcare services.  Together We’re Stronger.

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