GMU may get funding boost for Lyme disease testing

Delegate David Ramadan (87th) announced Dec. 18 that funding he requested for a groundbreaking new Lyme disease test developed by George Mason University has been included in Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell’s proposed 2015-2016 budget.

George Mason University’s Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine (CAPMM) would receive $250,000 to accelerate the rollout of the Nanotrap® based Lyme Antigen Test, which was developed jointly with Ceres Nanosciences.

“I would like to thank Delegate Ramadan for his leadership and efforts to address the Lyme Disease issue, and specifically for his request that I provide funding for George Mason University’s efforts to expedite testing kits for this serious disease,” said Governor Bob McDonnell.

“Lyme Disease is a serious issue affecting families across Virginia,” said Ramadan. “The funding I requested would help accelerate an innovative new test to give greater certainty to doctors, patients and families concerned about Lyme.”

Delegate Ramadan said her requested the funding after working with GMU, Ceres and Loudoun physician Dr. Sam Shor over the summer to add a new patient enrollment site for the clinical study of the test.

“Delegate Ramadan’s support for the new Lyme disease test being developed by George Mason and Ceres Nanosciences has been exceptional and integral to its success. Delegate Ramadan has a great appreciation for the importance of improved testing methods for Lyme disease…” said Ceres’ CEO, Ross Dunlap.

Ramadan represents the 87th House of Delegates District, which includes western Prince William County and eastern Loudoun County. He is on two House committees: Privileges & Elections (P&E) and Science & Technology (S&T).