Center for Celiac Research, University of Maryland

Results: The CFCR was established in 1996 and was the first celiac center in the world. In 2000, the CFCR team discovered Zonulin, a key element for all autoimmune disorders. We also developed the celiac disease blood test currently used by physicians worldwide. In 2003, the CFCR published its prevalence study which stated that 1 out of 133 Americans has celiac disease. The CFCR helped create the American Celiac Disease Alliance in 2004 to handle the gluten-free food labeling law with the FDA. In 2007, the CFCR established the guidelines for safe gluten levels for the new food labeling law. In 2009, the CFCR started the Infant Nutrition Study to explore the possibility to prevent celiac disease in infants at risk. This study is still recruiting. In addition, Zonulin was cloned in 2009, identifying it as an ancient protein that is found only in humans. In 2010 the CFCR published a study that followed over 8,000 people since 1970 showing that the prevalence of celiac disease has doubled every 15 years. We also are participating in a new international research initiative, partly funded by the Vatican, to explore the therapeutic potential of intestinal stem cells. March 2011, the CFCR released a study that idenitified key pathogenic differences between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity, which demonstrates that gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are part of a spectrum of gluten-related disorders. Every May, the CFCR organizes Making Tracks for Celiacs, an International Walk/Run for Celiac Disease. May is Celiac Awareness Month. This event has raised almost $3 million in the past 10 years since its inception. This is our biggest fundraising event of the year and provides crucial support for the research programs here at the center. Our goal is for Making Tracks for Celiacs to continue to grow and raise awareness for celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.

Geographic areas served: Worldwide