Myself and one other member here have skyped with Dr. Melcangi of the University of Milan. Dr. Melcangi has made significant discoveries since his last manuscript was submitted and found evidence of functional changes (in addition to altered neurosteroid levels, which all participants have) including very significant findings regarding the 5ar enzyme in at least 50% of the participants. These discoveries have to be further analyzed and also correlated to the participants who apparently don’t have them. It is still too early to cheer but Dr. Melcangi may well have found the root cause of this condition.
In order to allow Dr. Melcangi to expedite his research as well as its scope so that he finishes much faster than would otherwise be possible, we need to raise money. Dr. Melcangi indicated the money will go towards setting up an experimental model of PFS which will permit exploring in detail what happens in the nervous system on several molecular targets, including methylation of 5alpha reductase, alteration of neurotransmitter pathways etc. These molecular changes will be related to depression/anxiety symptomatology and neuroactive steroid synthesis.
This fund-raising effort is necessary because the Foundation has to decide where to allocate its funds and according to the Foundation Melcangi is not at the top of their list.
We are looking for 100 people willing to donate at least 200 USD each, however donations in excess of 100 USD will be accepted.
For some of you, the amount requested may be a burden, but it pales in comparison to suffering with PFS.
Once we have reached our goal, I will contact the Foundation to let them know that we would like to collectively donate and have the funds directed to Dr. Melcangi’s lab.
All those willing to donate, please indicate the amount.