The Tulane Center for Gene Therapy recently received $500,000 from the Oberkotter Foundation, as part of an ongoing commitment, for research into the genetic causes and potential cures of Alzheimerýs disease. George H. Nofer, co-trustee of the foundation, presented the funds to Dr. Darwin Prockop, director of the center, on May 15.

The Tulane center is the first gene therapy center to devote research to using "adult" (non-fetal) stem cells to regenerate lost neurons and other essential elements of mental functioning.

Alzheimerýs is a disease characterized by progressive memory loss, confusion, agitation and distraction. Currently four million people in the United States are afflicted with the disease. It is estimated that 34 million worldwide will develop the disease by 2025 if a cure and treatment are not found.

The Oberkotter Foundation is dedicated to providing financial support for research into chronic diseases, such as deafness, diabetes and Alzheimerýs disease.