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Letter from Alice: Unlocking the Mystery of Celiac Disease

As we begin September, a sense of excitement fills the air here at Beyond Celiac. Fall is a time of change—new beginnings at school, cooler weather, a shift in the leaves. It’s also a time of the year when we come together as a community to raise funds for much-needed celiac disease research. This year, I am thrilled to invite you to join us for our fall fundraising campaign, “Unlocking the Mystery of Celiac Disease.“
Despite millions affected by this condition, celiac disease is still a mystery that continues to puzzle many medical professionals. Its complexity has presented challenges to those who live with it every day, diagnosed or not. But let’s not forget that every puzzle has a solution waiting to be discovered, and every mystery has a key that can unlock its secrets. This month, we embark on a journey of discovery, a journey that holds the promise of answers and the potential to transform lives. You have the power to help us find the key and unlock the secrets of celiac disease.
By contributing to our “Unlocking the Mystery of Celiac Disease” campaign, you become an essential part of a movement that is reshaping the future of celiac disease research. Together, we can change the narrative around celiac disease, from a perplexing puzzle to a clear condition with a straightforward solution.
So far in 2023—thanks to contributions to campaigns like this—Beyond Celiac has proudly awarded five multi-year grants totaling $1.6 million as part of our celiac disease research grant program. These grants support cutting-edge research at esteemed institutions across five countries, cementing Beyond Celiac as a global leader in funding celiac disease research. Projects we’re funding are focused on finding clues to answering important questions such as:
- How can we accelerate diagnosis?
- How does gluten actually cause damage in those with celiac disease?
- Are there better, non-invasive tests that can diagnose celiac disease?
- Who will develop celiac disease and why?
- Can we predict how this disease will progress in patients?
- What types of treatments can stop intestinal damage?
None of this would be possible without YOUR support. And we can’t continue to find clues to the mystery of this disease without ongoing funding.
I am also happy to report that all gifts made to this campaign will be matched up to $20,000, thanks to the generosity of a dedicated donor. This means that your impact will be doubled, amplifying the reach of your contribution and furthering the progress we make in unlocking the mystery of celiac disease.
I invite you to stand united with us in our mission to drive diagnosis, advance research, and accelerate the discovery of new treatments and a cure. Let’s embrace the challenge of “Unlocking the Mystery of Celiac Disease” together. Your contribution, no matter the size, holds the potential to transform lives, inspire hope, and bring us one step closer to a future where celiac disease is no longer an enigma.
Visit our campaign page to learn more, contribute, and share in our vision for a world where we can eat without fear.
Thank you for your support and dedication to our cause.
Together for a cure,
Alice Bast
CEO
Welcome autumn and apple season with this creamy apple tart, similar to an apple cheesecake. We recommend using a crisp apple, like Granny Smith, but try experimenting with other varieties if you like a sweeter treat!
Flank Steak Fajitas with Salsa and Guacamole
Hispanic Heritage Month starts September 15. Celebrate by diving into the world of Hispanic cuisine! Most dishes are gluten-free, with a base of corn flour rather than wheat. These fajitas are no different!
This recipe is courtesy of Chef Simon Clarke and Allergic Living.
Noticias sobre investigación
Running the numbers in celiac disease
A group of international researchers has come up with a five-point scoring system for those with celiac disease to determine the risk of having persistent intestinal damage.
New insights into the way gluten causes damage in celiac disease revealed in Beyond Celiac funded research
Results of research funded by Beyond Celiac point to a more precise way that gluten sets off damage to the intestine in those who have celiac disease and could help in the development of innovative approaches to finding a treatment.
Voices of Celiac: Samantha’s Story
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is how to be my own advocate and speak up for myself. I’m no longer worried about “being a pain,” or seeming needy when trying to ensure that what I’m eating is safe. My safety comes first over caring about what other people might think!
Get Involved in Research
ILLUMINATE-062 Study
Participants are needed for the ILLUMINATE-062 Study, which is looking at the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication designed to break down gluten in the stomach compared with placebo in those with celiac disease who are on a gluten-free diet. The study will evaluate how well the investigational medication reduces celiac-related symptoms and intestinal damage due to gluten exposure.
Participants who have been diagnosed with celiac, which was confirmed by a biopsy, and have been on a gluten-free diet for at least 12 months are needed. Study-related care is provided at no cost and a travel stipend may be provided.
PROACTIVE Study
Still experiencing celiac disease symptoms despite your gluten-free diet? This phase 2 clinical trial is testing the investigational medication PRV-015 in combination with a gluten-free diet for ongoing celiac disease symptoms.
Allergic Living Spotlight
Gut Microbiome Flaws Linked to Allergies from Food to Eczema
A study has linked the development in kids of any of food allergy, asthma, eczema and rhinitis to a common factor—an unbalanced gut microbiome.
Researchers have long been intrigued by the gut microbiome in the development of allergic diseases. But this Canadian study is unique in identifying a common origin in infancy across the four separate allergic diseases.
News, Events & Updates
Beyond Celiac and the Society for the Study of Celiac Disease award Shayna Coburn, PhD, of Children’s National Hospital, the 2023 Early Career Research Award.
Raise Money for Beyond Celiac on Facebook!
Happy birth month to all our September-born community members! When your big day rolls around, consider raising money for Beyond Celiac so that we can help fund new research by scientists in the celiac disease field. And a HUGE thank you to everyone who’s created fundraisers for us throughout the years! These fundraisers help make our important work possible.






