“Through the philanthropy of Patti and Warner,” said Dr. Davidorf, “our researchers have located the BAP1 gene associated with a familial cancer syndrome which includes eye melanoma. This will help identify at-risk family members.”
Warner and Patti Blow Research Commitment
For years, Patti and Warner Blow have been active supporters of ophthalmology research. They funded The Patti Blow Research Lab, a state-of-the art molecular genetics research facility. Led by Frederick Davidorf, MD and Mohamed Abdel-Rahman, MD, PhD, the Patti Blow Research Lab focuses on the genetic pathways involved in malignant melanoma.
“Through the philanthropy of Patti and Warner,” said Dr. Davidorf, “our researchers have located the BAP1 gene associated with a familial cancer syndrome which includes eye melanoma. This will help identify at-risk family members.” The understanding of genes and molecular genetic pathways in cancer is essential in creating new cancer treatments. In response to this need, the Blows have pledged additional money to support the genetics lab. This will be used to fund studies into the genetic pathways involved in cancer growth. It will also help develop targeted therapies to control and prevent metastatic disease in eye melanoma. With the support of Warner and Patti, the OSU Ocular Melanoma Group has established a national and international reputation. This will lead to new treatment strategies identified at Ohio State helping tumor patients far beyond our Ohio borders. We are indebted to the Blows for their continued generosity.