The Ryan Foundation commits $2.7 million to Boys Town National Research Hospital
The Ryan Foundation has donated an additional $2.7 million to Boys Town National Research Hospital which started in July 2022 through June 2024. The work completed over the last year has provided improved patient outcomes and already saved many lives along with many more in the years to come.
Dr. Fernando pictured above, is focusing on the development of novel noninvasive molecular diagnostic and prognostic tests by discovering new biomarkers for childhood and adult cancers along with other diseases. The Ryan Foundation has donated approximately $6.9 million starting in 2015 through current day towards the Molecular Diagnostics Research Lab. Over the years the donations have helped with the new development of a long-read (~15,000bp) adaptive sequencing technology using Oxford Nanopore lone-read sequencing technology to diagnose Fragile X (FRX) syndrome and 15q deletion in autism spectrum disorder. Next generation sequencing technology will not work for repeat expansion and gene deletion detection. Hence this new sequencing technology will help to diagnose conditions caused by gene deletions and repeat expansions.
In April 2025, researchers identified two significant discoveries through the use of whole exome sequencing technology. The first involved the identification of novel genetic variants linked to non-syndromic hearing loss, advancing our understanding of the underlying causes of this condition. The second revealed genetic variants associated with cause chronic kidney disease of uncertain etiology, offering new insights into a complex and previously unexplained disorder.
Jason C. Bruce, Director of Boys Town National Research Hospital stated:
“There are countless people who benefit from the work we do every day in this lab. Faster diagnoses and improved cared make a world of the difference in the lives of our patients and that is possible in great part because of your commitment to our mission”
Boys Town held a special place in the hearts of Dr. and Mrs. Ryan and there will be a very exciting announcement coming in 2025 in honor of the remembrance of Dr. Wayne L Ryan and the continual support in furthering molecular diagnosis research.
For more information, please visit their website.
Photos provided by the Molecular Diagnostics Research Lab.
