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Abstract or Project Description

Abstract or Project Description

The Luggage Store, also known as The 509 Cultural Center, is a nonprofit arts organization whose mission is to foster community through multidisciplinary arts programming that promotes diversity, inclusion and dialogue among the diverse cultural communities of downtown San Francisco. They aim to reduce inter-group tensions and stereotypes through exhibitions, performances, education and public art initiatives.

Abstract or Project Description

New drug delivery platforms are needed for the targeted delivery of high-specificity therapeutics to sites of disease to maximize efficacy and limit off-target effects. This is particularly true in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as therapeutics that bind to and neutralize pro-inflammatory factors have had profound positive effects on the quality of life of innumerable IBD patients. However, the current systemic route of administration of these therapies carries a risk of life-threatening infections and the increases the risk of some cancers. To circumvent these issues, we have developed designer probiotics equipped with sophisticated nanomachines that enable the deposition of therapeutic payloads directly into the lumen of the intestines, delivering drugs directly to the primary site of disease in patients with IBD. To further improve therapeutic efficacy and limit off-target effects, we have engineered these probiotics to recognize and secrete nanobodies, a new class of therapeutic biomolecules with exquisite neutralizing specificity, thus further limiting off-target effects. Herein, we propose to test the efficacy of these probiotics in multiple mouse preclinical models of IBD as a first step in the development of these probiotics as a new paradigm for the treatment of patients with both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Abstract or Project Description

Genome wide association studies (GWAS) show that the human gene ITLN1 is associated with Crohn’s disease. A common form of this gene is present in a substantial fraction of individuals with the disease. The functional significance of this association is unknown. A critical step in using genetic information to develop treatments with the potential to benefit patients with Crohn’s disease is figuring out the function of the forms of genes associated with the disease. We propose to test (1) the function of ITLN-1 (the protein produced by ITLN1) in intestine-derived models of Crohn’s disease, focusing on a hypothesis based in large part on our preliminary data showing that ITLN-1 contributes to the interaction of normal gut bacteria with the gut lining; and (2) the role in this process of a particular protein produced by bacteria associated with Crohn’s disease. Insights gained from the proposed studies have the potential to serve as the basis for the development of treatments that could control or prevent illness in individuals carrying Crohn’s disease-associated forms of the ITLN1 gene.

Abstract or Project Description

Humans evolved with, and continue to harbor, trillions of microorganisms living inside or on our bodies. As a result, these microbes play fundamental roles in our health. The last 20 years of research has focused almost exclusively on our resident bacteria. New technologies have enabled identification of viruses within the intestine, i.e. “the virome”. Moreover, recent studies indicate that the gut virome is significantly altered in patients with IBD, and that viruses can have a protective function in mice. However, the contribution of the virome to a healthy gut and how changes in virus composition impacts gut inflammation is almost completely unknown. Here, we propose to identify components of the human intestinal virome that shape our immune system in the context of health and IBD. This work will identify protective roles for the intestinal virome – a contrast to the misconception that all viruses are harmful.

Abstract or Project Description

In IBD, the microbes within the intestinal tract, collectively known as the microbiota, are targeted by inappropriate immune responses. There are also a number of changes in the microbiota composition that are thought to drive or amplify IBD pathology. One of these is the expansion of E. coli. However, our preliminary data has identified select E. coli isolates that limit intestinal pathology in mouse models of colitis by activating intestinal macrophages that either limit inflammation or promote barrier repair, two therapeutic endpoints for IBD. These results indicate that while some E. coli may amplify disease, others may protect against it. Understanding these differences will allow us to develop novel therapeutics.

Abstract or Project Description

To support Dr. Kevin Elias’ ovarian cancer research.

Abstract or Project Description

To support programming and professional development opportunities.

Abstract or Project Description

Explores the fluid boundaries between self and other, fostering tolerance for difference as well as rapid change catalyzed by new technologies. Synthetic Nature will combine oral traditions, Magical Realism, music and 3D projection mapping to tell the story of human evolution in three acts, guiding audiences through the diversity and progress of human history, probing what constitutes “the human.”

Abstract or Project Description

Our project aims to revolutionise the role of the microbiome to develop therapies for IBD in the near future.

Recent trials of fecal transplant in UC have shown the potential that changing the gut’s microbes can have in IBD care. We will advance this technology for all IBD patients.

Our group has developed new methods to identify bacteria that were previously unknown in the human gut. We have found these bacteria (>300 new species) in samples taken at colonoscopies from children newly diagnosed with IBD. We have identified several new candidate bacteria associated with local responses in the gut immune system. This work is possible by using cutting-edge bacterial techniques analysed in combination with corresponding patient gut samples, not fecal tests.

This project will test these candidate bacteria, including with patient derived gut samples (organoids or “mini-guts”), to determine which will be best for clinical trials. These candidates may be protective, and be novel probiotics, or inflammatory, and therefore could be for the targets of personalized treatment. With the support of the Rainin Foundation, we aim to have bacterial candidates ready for early clinical trials within 12 months, at the end of this project.

Abstract or Project Description

MISSSEY is dedicated to preventing girls and gender-expansive youth from falling into sexual exploitation and violence while also aiding those currently experiencing exploitation to exit such circumstances. Additionally, they provide ongoing support and partnerships to help these individuals avoid re-entering exploitative situations and live liberated from harmful relationships.

Abstract or Project Description

Mujeres Unidas Y Activas (MUA) is a grassroots organization that empowers immigrant women, particularly Latinas, through leadership development, community organizing and advocacy. MUA focuses on issues such as workers’ rights, immigration and gender justice, striving to create a supportive and equitable environment for immigrant women and their families.

Abstract or Project Description

The Museum of Craft and Design in San Francisco, established in 2004, is dedicated solely to craft and design, offering engaging exhibitions and programs. As a non-collecting institution, it fosters collaborations with artists, designers and institutions to provide diverse and inspiring experiences in the realm of craft and design for visitors of all ages.

Abstract or Project Description

Funding over five years to support a longitudinal study to learn if positive SEEDS outcomes persist through third grade, as well as understand the contributing environmental factors.

Abstract or Project Description

An immersive multimedia bharatanatyam dance production which explores increasing income disparities within the local South Asian community.

Abstract or Project Description

To support the TLCBD Micro Neighborhood program pilot.

Abstract or Project Description

Oakland Futures Project sims to harness the ideas and influence of Oakland’s high-profile arts leaders such as W. Kamau Bell, Chinaka Hodge and Ryan Coogler to design a path forward for Oakland to remain a thriving, inclusive and safe arts community that can grow its influence and respond to next generation creatives.

Abstract or Project Description

To support Oakland LeafÕs After-School literacy programs.

Abstract or Project Description

To support a Program Manager position to develop and implement a series of continuous learning programs for the Oakland Literacy Coalition’s membership Literacy Service Providers. Funds will also support securing an outreach coordinator for the Oakland Reads Mini-Grants programs and establishing additional partnerships with community and faith based organizations.

Abstract or Project Description

To support a continued partnership focusing on transitional kindergarten to second grade literacy with 18 district schools. The goal is to reduce the number of second and third graders who are reading below grade level by providing targeted and data driven support in earlier years. Support includes leader and teacher professional development, SEEDS of Learning for new teachers only, and SIPPS intervention materials for first through second grade. Funding also includes support for Oakland Unified School District schools for the SEEDS of Learning professional development program for their transitional kindergarten teachers.