The biotech and pharmaceutical industries are critical partners in the advancement of human health. The development of new drugs and technologies, formulated to improve the health and well-being of individuals afflicted with lymphatic diseases and lymphedema is our ultimate goal. Improved treatments and cures are what we're all about. Stimulating interest by industry is a fundamental goal of the Foundation.

Historically, industry has had relatively limited interest in this area of research and development. However, that is changing. The recent explosion of discoveries surrounding the molecular biology, genetics and embryonic development of the lymphatic system, and the outreach efforts of LRF, have captured the attention of industry. Now we are even witnessing companies involved in lymphatic research. Through our continued advocacy and outreach efforts, not only will our existing industry relationships be enhanced, but newly created partnerships will be sought and fostered. This is critical for the development of improved treatments and cures!

• Comprehensive National Awareness Campaign - In response to LRF's initiatives, Congress has supported the creation of a comprehensive awareness campaign for lymphatic research and disease targeting, among others, the pharmaceutical and biotech industries.
  2005 House Appropriations Report Language
  
  
• Development of Lymphatic Tools and Technologies Funding - Through LRF's advocacy efforts, several funding opportunities have been created to attract industry development of lymphatic tools and technologies, including reagents, functional imaging, etc.
  2004 House Appropriations Report Language
  
  
• Genzyme - Since its founding in 1981, Genzyme has dedicated itself to discovering and developing innovative products and services to improve the lives of patients with debilitating diseases. Genzyme-sponsored research and development has led to the introduction of new treatments for many serious health problems including rare and previously untreatable illnesses. LRF leadership has met with Genzyme's corporate and scientific leadership to explore collaborations. Genzyme participates in the national lymphatic disease/lymphedema patient registry and tissue bank task force.
  www.genzyme.com
  
  
• Imclone Systems - ImClone Systems Incorporated is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing breakthrough biologic medicines in the area of oncology. The Company has utilized the many advances made in the fields of molecular biology, oncology, genomics and antibody engineering to build a novel pipeline of product candidates designed to address specific genetic mechanisms involved in cancer growth and development. Imclone participates in several LRF activities including conferences and collaborations with LRF scientific leadership.
  www.imclone.com
  
  
• Regeneron - Regeneron Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company that discovers, develops, and intends to commercialize medicines for the treatment of serious medical conditions. Regeneron participates in several LRF activities including our conferences and national lymphatic disease/lymphedema patient registry and tissue bank task force.
  www.regeneron.com
  
  
• PhRMA - The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) represents the country's leading research-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, devoted to inventing medicines that allow patients to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives.
  www.phrma.org
  
  
• NYBA - The New York Biotechnology Association is a not-for-profit trade association of 260 bioscience companies, world class research institutes and related professional services in New York federal governments and influenced key legislation.
  www.nyba.org
  
  
• LILSI - Long Island Life Sciences Initiative provides support and development for life sciences companies in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, nutriceutical and cosmeceutical sectors on Long Island.
  www.lilsi.org