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Abstract or Project Description

Abstract or Project Description

Although there are many drugs available for the treatment of IBD, most patients do not respond long-term to any one drug. One possible reason is that the condition we call “IBD” likely represents many distinct diseases, rather than simply just ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, and each subtype may require a different treatment. Here we will address this problem by using a suite of state-of-the-art laboratory techniques that will allow us to study the genetic instructions (RNA) of thousands of individual cells sampled from the intestines of patients with IBD. Using bioinformatic methods, we will use this information to classify IBD into different diseases, which may help us to determine how best to treat each subtype. We also hope to discover new molecules that are involved in causing IBD, an important first step to developing new treatments for IBD

Abstract or Project Description

The gut microbiota is believed to play a critical role in inflammation in Crohn’s disease (CD). Adherent–invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC) often colonize the intestinal mucosa of CD patients. AIEC colonization may promote intestinal inflammation in CD patients. We have found that AIEC prefers to use the amino acid L-serine for growth in the inflamed gut. As dietary proteins are a major source of L-serine in the gut lumen, withholding L-serine from the diet prevents the growth of AIEC in the gut of mice. These facts suggest that a diet deprived of L-serine may alleviate CD symptoms by modulating the gut microbiota, in particular, the colonization by AIEC. In this project, we will validate the effect of dietary L-serine modification on the microbiome and disease outcomes by using a human microbiota–associated mouse model and studying CD patients

Abstract or Project Description

To support housing for student interns participating in the Black Leadership Fellowship Program. Grant amendment 9/27/2022: To provide scholarships supporting the retention and persistence of BASE participants with demonstrated unmet financial need.

Abstract or Project Description

Urban Alchemy aim to raise the vibrations in urban spaces Ð and save the lives of those who exist on their streets. Advocating against defaulting to police intervention for issues related to poverty and desperation, they emphasize the need for alternative approaches to addressing trauma, addiction and mental illness.

Abstract or Project Description

A performance using sign language, film, dance, and folk/rock music to educate audiences on the experiences of Deaf refugees, the Deaf Diaspora, and their battles against audism and discrimination.

Abstract or Project Description

Explores the historic and systemic exploitation of female labor in the US/Mexico borderlands through new choreography centered in American tap, Zapateado Son Jarocho and Afro-Carribbean rythms and movement. Ghostly Labor_ tells the story of grassroots activism and perseverance of Chicana and Native workers, bringing to light the resilience, beauty, and humanity of some of the most vulnerable and unseen people in our society.

Abstract or Project Description

Lymphatic vessels are specialized vessels that transport immune cells and fat out of the gut to maintain health. Surgeons treating Crohn’s disease decades ago argued that impaired lymphatic flow may be a key problem in the disease. However, only recently have tools emerged to study lymphatic vessels in detail. We have data that lymph transport is impaired even in early Crohn’s disease. However, treatments targeting the cytokine TNF reverse the impaired transport. As investigators specializing in different lymphatic research areas, we will synergistically utilize human subjects’ studies with research in mice and rats to map in detail how terminal ileal inflammation alters lymph flow. We will also address whether a gut hormone called GIP that is overproduced in the setting of TNF neutralizing therapy accounts for how therapy against TNF restores lymph flow. If so, mimetics of the hormone may have utility in subjects unable to use therapeutics against TNF.

Abstract or Project Description

A new choreographic work bridging and interweaving dance and percussion of West Africa and the African American marching bands of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The work takes the form of a call-and-response battle featuring intricately composed sections of highly stylized movement and percussion merging into community rising together in unison.

Abstract or Project Description

World Central Kitchen (WCK) is a nonprofit organization founded by chef JosŽ AndrŽs, dedicated to providing meals to those affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises worldwide. Through its network of volunteers and partnerships, WCK works to alleviate hunger and promote food security in communities facing adversity.

Abstract or Project Description

The Young Musicians Choral Orchestra (YMCO) is dedicated to enriching the lives of talented, low-income students aged 9-18 across the Bay Area through high-quality musical training, academic support and personal guidance.

Abstract or Project Description

Youth Beat provides free digital media training to kids from some of the Bay AreaÕs lowest income neighborhoods. Their mission is to help inner-city kids get on a path that leads to success in college, career and life.

Abstract or Project Description

A site-specific aerial performance that examines the reconciliation between acts of violence towards Places of Worship and themes of love, sacred space, and community. Love, a state of grace is designed to promote dialogue, healing, and understanding among diverse multicultural and multigenerational communities.

Abstract or Project Description

To support a student through the student scholarship program.

Abstract or Project Description

To support SEEDS of Learning, an eight month professional development program for transitional kindergarten and kindergarten teachers that includes materials, classroom tutor resources and ongoing coaching support.

Abstract or Project Description

Athletic Scholars Advancement Program (ASAP) is a student-centered college access and persistence program based at Mission High School, focused on getting students to and through college. They encourage all students to realize their full potential for college completion.

Abstract or Project Description

By Britney Fazier and Margo Hall, a multidisciplinary performance ritual focused on the life and work of Marie Laveau, a Louisiana Voodoo Queen. LAVEAU will go beyond the traditional theatrical experience by incorporating voodoo cleansing rituals with movement, music and story-telling, challenging what engaging Black theater is and should be.

Abstract or Project Description

Explores the intersections between people with disabilities and the homeless community through the story of Alice in Wonderland. Alice seeks to highlight the disproportionate impact of homelessness on people with disabilities, as well as their need for accessible housing, healthcare and employment opportunities.

Abstract or Project Description

To support operating expenses for Bay Area International Children’s Film Festival.