2008 Annual Report

Our 2008 annual report highlights Benaroya Research Institute’s (BRI) significant achievements in its scientific programs this past year, directed toward our mission to discover causes and cures of autoimmune diseases. 2008 was a landmark year for research financial support, as funding for BRI reached an all-time high of $24.5 million.

A part of this funding helped to accelerate research studies in the treatment of autoimmune (Type I) diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and lupus through the Program for Autoimmune Disease Intervention.  BRI, with collaborators at the University of Washington, National Institute of Aging and Microsoft Research, initiated studies into Lou Gehrig’s disease, a devastating neurological disease.  Ressearch into a critical mechanism of immune–mediated and allergic diseases of the skin and lungs, such as asthma, was expanded.  Scientists used tetramers—pioneering biomarkers developed at BRI—to study cells from people allergic to cat dander, tree and grass pollen, peanuts and mold.  Studies were also conducted in hepatitis B and repairing the heart muscle after damage from a heart attack.  Finally, in 2008, more than 1,500 people participated in our clinical research trials and our translational research programs. On a typical day in 2008, more than 60 clinical research trial options were available for patients who, whether because of interest or need, sought to enroll in experimental studies working to improve the future of patient care.

To view the full report, click on annual report.