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Dear Friends,
I recently returned from an AIPAC Policy Summit in Washington, DC, where it was inspiring to be among so many pro-Israel voices whose collective message was to keep the US/Israel relationship strong and Israel safe. The one thing you can do is call and tell your congressman that his/her support should not be taken for granted; you can also suggest that they visit Israel and Tel Aviv University (TAU).
My involvement with TAU is one of the many ways that I personally work to help secure Israel’s future. TAU epitomizes Judaism’s highest values of education and democracy. Just as importantly, it connects us across generations — providing opportunities for students through scholarships and supporting research makes me optimistic for the future. Activities across the campus in a multitude of fields positions TAU as a major contributor to Israel's strength and to a better world. I hope this brief video will make you feel optimistic too.
A new scientific method developed at TAU's Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences promises to revolutionize the understanding of the gene PTEN, which is associated with cancer and autism. The breakthrough will help scientists better understand how cells grow and divide, potentially leading to advancements in the treatment of several conditions, including developmental disorders and various forms of cancer. Dr. Tal Laviv, who led the study, notes that it could help identify diseases at earlier stages, potentially leading to faster and more effective treatments.
Dr. Dekel Rosenfeld's lab in the Department of Biomedical Engineering works with magnetic remote-controlled nanoparticles injected into the cells of the organs in the human body. The goal is to have the nanomaterials reach receptors in the body that are deep in the organs and to help control those receptors. The nanomaterials can be used to control biological signals in several ways, including activating the body to release hormones.
Professor Asya Rolls recently joined TAU from the Technion. Her lab studies the connection between mind and body to understand how the brain regulates immunity and how mental states can reflect the ability to cope with disease. Her innovative research has shown in an animal model that, when an animal has a reward to live for, it has a better chance of survival. In one study, the brain-reward area in lab animal models that have cancer was activated, resulting in the tumors shrinking quicker and healing faster. In this video, she explains the brain's role in immunity. The long-term goal of her lab’s work is to harness the brain's therapeutic potential for treating autoimmune diseases, psychosomatic disorders, and cancer.
Thank you for being on this journey of optimism and for supporting Tel Aviv University. Together we are helping to strengthen the future of Israel.
Shabbat shalom.
Sincerely,
Dr. Garry A. Rayant
Chairman, American Friends of Tel Aviv University
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