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Funding Myelin Research Since  1989

Welcome to our official website


We are a 501(c)(3) international medical research organization that has been funding myelin research across the globe and inducing international scientific collaboration for over two decades. 


Founded in 1989 by Augusto and Michaela Odone for their son, Lorenzo, who suffered from  adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), the Odones' story was dramatized in the film "Lorenzo's Oil" starring Nick Nolte and Susan Sarandon, released by Universal Studios in 1992. More information on the film, the oil, the Odones.
The Myelin Project has partnered with The ALD-AMN Global Alliance (AAGA) to unite like minded charitable foundations from around the world with the common goal to spread awareness, raise money to advance research for treatments and a cure, expand the bone marrow and cord blood registries and provide support, direction, and information to ALD and AMN affected persons and their families. Click here for more information.

The Myelin Project has also partnered with The Leukodystrophy Alliance (LA) for similar purposes.  The mission statement of the LA is "Leveraging Resources to Help Those Affected by the Leukodystrophies".  Click here for more information.
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What is Myelin?

Myelin is the insulating sheath surrounding nerve cells.  It is the white matter coating our nerves, enabling them to conduct impulses between the brain and other parts of the body. It consists of a layer of proteins packed between two layers of lipids. Myelin can be destroyed by hereditary neuro-degenerative illnesses such as ALD, and also acquired by diseases such as multiple sclerosis.  There is no known cure for any demyelinating illness.
"Lorenzo and his Parents"
By: Augusto Odone
Augusto Odone's new book, "Lorenzo and his Parents" has now been released in English.  Click on the image to the left to be directed to more information.  You can also purchase the book via this link.
The Myelin Project's 22nd 
International Scientific Conference

The Myelin Project met in Frankfurt, Germany at the Mercure Hotel on October 4th and 5th for The Myelin Project's 22nd Annual International Scientific Conference.  Click here for more information on the event.
Donate Now
Your donation goes to...
 
 - Fund Medical Research for Myelin Repair
 - Raise awareness of demyelinating diseases
 - Induce international scientific collaboration
 - Advocate for newborn screening
 - Find a cure for demyelinating illnesses
- Lorenzo's Oil -
In ALD pre-symptomatic boys Lorenzo's Oil often (but not always) prevents the onset of the disease by stopping the body from producing the very long chain fatty acids, whose buildup leads to demyelination. It is specific to ALD, does not repair myelin, and does not have any known effect on other demyelinating disorders. Click here for more information on the oil and how to obtain it.