The Foundation for Prader-Willi Research Canada was established in 2006 by parents of children with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). Today, FPWR Canada is composed of parents, family members, researchers, and others from BC, Alberta, Ontario, PEI and across Canada, who are interested in addressing the many issues related to Prader Willi Syndrome, including childhood obesity and autism spectrum disorders. The mission of FPWR Canada is to eliminate the challenges of Prader-Willi Syndrome through the advancement of research and therapeutic development. High quality research will lead to more effective treatments and an eventual cure for this disorder. By working together, we intend to free our loved ones from the burden of Prader Willi Syndrome, allowing them to lead full and independent lives.

FPWR Canada and Prader Willi Syndrome Research

FPWR Canada works closely with our sister organization the Foundation for Prader Willi Research (www.fpwr.org).  Through a professionally managed grant process, FPWR Canada selects research projects based on the collaborative input of researchers and parents, choosing projects that are both scientifically meritorious and highly relevant for individuals with Prader Willi Syndrome and their families.

To date, FPWR Canada has directly funded over $200,000 of PWS-related research and the entire FPWR (including the US and Canada) has committed more than $1,300,000.

FPWR along with FPWR Canada has funded thirty-four Prader Willi Syndrome research projects since 2003, covering:

  • genetics and pathophysiology of PWS
  • development of mouse models of PWS
  • hunger, obesity, and reward circuits
  • development of new therapies for PWS
  • understanding sleep disturbances in PWS
  • improving academic and learning skills for children with PWS

Research funded by FPWR Canada has been published in top medical journals, including Nature Neuroscience, Endocrinology, and BMC Genomics.

Does The Foundation for Prader-Willi Research only Fund Prader Willi Syndrome Research in Canada?

The Foundation for Prader Willi Research Canada focuses on funding the best Prader Willi Syndrome research available. To date, FPWR Canada has primarily funded research in Alberta and Ontario, however we will fund the best research available, wherever it is in the world.