- Why Did iüLabs Begin?
- What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?
- Quick Stats: Duchenne in Numbers
- 7 Notable Facts That Will Change Your Perspective of Duchenne
- How is iüLabs Supporting People’s Health?
- Why Choose iüLabs?
- Try iüLabs and Get a FREE Water Bottle
- What Did Customers Say About iüLabs?
- References
In this blog post, we delve into the lesser-known aspects of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a rare genetic disorder that profoundly impacts millions of children globally.
While DMD is recognised by many, there are notable facts about this condition that remain unfamiliar to most. But did you know why iüLabs first began its journey? It all traces back to Felix, the son of our co-founder Alasdair Robertson, who bravely battles DMD every day. iüLabs may have supplements for joint health, energy, and immunity, but our first ever product was for Felix – the iüFelix drink.
Inspired by Felix's resilience and the urgent need for effective solutions, iüLabs developed its first product, the iüFelix drink, to support individuals like him. As we approach World Rare Disease Day, February 29th, we reflect on the significance of raising awareness for rare conditions like DMD, which affect millions globally. In fact, 300 million people worldwide are living with a rare disease.
Join us as we shed light on the challenges faced by those with rare diseases and explore the driving force behind iüLabs' mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families impacted by challenging health conditions. With every iüLabs supplement purchased, we donate to DMD charities, which are close to our hearts.
Why Did iüLabs Begin?
In 2014, Felix's diagnosis with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy ignited a quest for better solutions by his parents, Robyn, and our co-founder Alasdair, alongside a growing community of Duchenne parents. This movement included Dr. Bob McDonald and Dr. Wolfgang Brysch (iüLabs co-founders), who recognised the urgent need for effective treatments.
While Wolfgang had a pharmaceutical product in development for Duchenne, the lengthy approval process spurred him to explore faster alternatives. Drawing on their expertise, Wolfgang, and his team, swiftly developed a DMD supplement ‘iüFelix’ utlising SoluSmart® our powerful absorption technology. Together with Dr Wolfgang's formulas inside ‘iüFelix’ it became a promising option to enhance quality of life for Duchenne patients.
Two years later, the impact of iüFelix has been profound. Feedback from patients like Felix reveals significant improvements in energy, mobility, and overall well-being. Inspired by their experiences, iüLabs is committed to addressing health challenges swiftly and collaboratively.
Driven by the belief that their approach holds vast potential, iüLabs is dedicated to developing innovative products that can make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing various health conditions, in partnership with physicians, patients, and their families. We hope to bring you with us on our journey toward a brighter future for everyone.
Click on the image, to watch our short 3-min film to learn more.
What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) stands as one of the most prevalent and severe forms of muscular dystrophy. It is a genetic disorder characterised by the absence or deficiency of the protein dystrophin, essential for maintaining muscle integrity and function.
Without dystrophin, muscle fibres become susceptible to damage and degeneration, leading to progressive muscle weakness, and wasting. DMD typically manifests in early childhood, with symptoms including delayed motor milestones, difficulty rising from the floor, and frequent falls due to muscle weakness.
As the condition advances, individuals may experience complications such as respiratory and cardiac issues, significantly impacting their quality of life.
Quick Stats: Duchenne in Numbers
1 in every 5,000
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) affects approximately 1 in every 5,000 male births worldwide. This statistic underscores the significant impact of DMD on global health, highlighting the need for effective treatments and interventions to support affected individuals and their families.
300,000 individuals worldwide
It is estimated that around 300,000 individuals worldwide are living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This staggering number underscores the widespread reach of the condition and its profound impact on affected individuals, families, and healthcare systems globally.
2,500 boys in the UK
DMD primarily affects males, approximately 2,500 boys and young men in the UK are living with the condition. About 100 boys in the UK are born with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy each year.
7 Notable Facts That Will Change Your Perspective of Duchenne
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy effects 2,500 boys and young men in the UK, and about 100 boys are born with the condition each year.
1. Genetic Mutation
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is caused by mutations in the DMD gene, which encodes the protein dystrophin. Dystrophin plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of muscle fibres. Mutations in the DMD gene lead to the absence or dysfunction of dystrophin, resulting in progressive muscle weakness and muscle wasting.
2. Early Onset Discovery
Symptoms of Duchenne typically appear in early childhood, with affected children often experiencing delayed motor milestones, such as walking. Early diagnosis is crucial for accessing appropriate medical care and support services to manage the condition effectively.
3. Progression Unravelled
Duchenne is characterised by progressive muscle degeneration, leading to loss of mobility and independence. Over time, individuals with Duchenne may have trouble walking, climbing stairs, and performing everyday tasks due to muscle weakness and fatigue.
4. Inherited Mysteries
Duchenne follows an X-linked inheritance pattern, primarily affecting males. Females can be carriers of the genetic mutation and may exhibit mild symptoms or be asymptomatic. Genetic counseling is essential for families affected by Duchenne to understand the risks of inheritance and make informed decisions about family planning.
5. Hopeful Quest for Solutions
Despite being a devastating condition, ongoing research efforts have led to promising developments in Duchenne treatment and management. Experimental therapies such as gene therapy and exon skipping hold potential for addressing the underlying genetic cause of Duchenne.
6. Newly Revolutionised Lifespan
Advances in medical care and management strategies have significantly improved the life expectancy of individuals with Duchenne in recent years. With proper medical intervention and comprehensive care, many individuals with Duchenne are now living into their thirties and beyond.
7. Community Resilience Revealed
The Duchenne community is a testament to resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Families affected by Duchenne are actively involved in advocacy, fundraising, and research efforts to accelerate progress towards effective treatments and a cure. With every iüLabs product you purchase, we donate to DMD charities that are close to our hearts.
How is iüLabs Supporting People’s Health?
The 3 Main Reasons Why iüLabs Supplements Make a Difference…
1 High bioavailability.
Delivering up to 5-20 times higher gut absorption and bioavailability than a standard supplement, with millions of multi laminar vesicles created when you shake your iüLabs drink due to high absorption technology SoluSmart®.
2. Precise formulations.
Every iüLabs supplement has been formulated with precision by Dr Wolfgang Brysch, our founder and scientist, from the dosage to quantities, and chosen compounds.
3. All-natural.
The supplements come to life when shaken. The vesicles come to life when you shake, the drink fresh on spot, which is why we do not need any additives to stabilise the vesicles, as is usually the case with liposomal structures. All iüLabs products contain 100% natural ingredients.
Why Choose iüLabs?
Get Sustained Energy All Day with iüVitalizer
“iüVitalizer has given my vitality a significant boost over the last year. Having tried various daily supplements over the years to balance my diet, this is the first one I have stuck with and with which I’ve seen a marked positive impact.” - Mark Beaumont, World Record Athlete Long-Distance Cyclist
iüVitalizer’s Benefits:
- Sustained and Balanced Energy: Experience long-lasting energy without the dreaded crashes.
- Enhanced Endurance and Mental Clarity: Stay sharp and focused throughout the day
- Comprehensive Formula: Our supplement contains a combination of 30+ compounds supporting your energy, metabolic, and nervous systems.
- High Absorption of Powerful Plant-Based Compounds with SoluSmart®: Our unique all-natural bioavailability enhancer ensures maximum effectiveness.
- Unlock your full potential with iüVitalizer and experience sustained energy, enhanced endurance, and mental clarity like never before.
Improve Your Joints for the Better with iüMove
“I pushed to get the hip replacement with the local doctor, but I'm not convinced I'm going to have it now because I don't have any pain. Taking iüMove, it really is like a very heavy blanket has been tossed.” – Lucy, iüMove trialist
iüMove’s Benefits:
- iüMove Makes a Difference: People experienced 36% less pain, 36% less stiffness and 40% less difficulty within 8 weeks.
- Benefit from Over 7 Years of Expert Research: iüMove is the result of extensive studies and dedication to your joint health.
- Proven by Extensive Product Trials: The effectiveness of iüMove is backed by rigorous testing and early adopters' feedback.
- Unleash the Power of Plant-Based Compounds with SoluSmart®: Our unique bioavailability enhancer ensures maximum effectiveness.
Experience the transformative power of iüMove, the natural joint health supplement that will make a marked difference in your life.
Don't let joint pain hold you back any longer.
Enhance Your Immunity with iüProtect
“I used to regularly get cold symptoms and issues with inflammation, including joint aches and pains. Along with eating and moving in the right way, iüProtect has made my system much more resilient. I take it every day, without fail.” – Tim R, iüProtect customer
iüProtect’s Benefits:
- Stay Healthy and Thrive: Boost your immune system to decrease the chance of catching a flu or cold with iüProtect's immune-supporting ingredients.
- Scientifically Selected Ingredients: Our drink is carefully crafted with a science-led blend of antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and energy-system powerful plant compounds.
- The Only Immunity Drink with SoluSmart®: iüProtect ensures maximum effectiveness with our unique bioavailability enhancer.
Your immune system needs support all year round. Elevate your body's defence against illness and infection with iüProtect.
Join the 86% of our satisfied customers who rate iüLabs supplements as the best they've ever taken. Get ready to feel the difference with iüLabs!
What Did Customers Say About iüLabs?
‘Ease of use’ iüMove is so easy to use and administer. Difference it makes feels sustainable and has made psoriatic arthritis more tolerable. Definitely should be part of daily regime…- Nick J
‘100% recommendation’ I've been using iüProtect during travel and flu season, and it's worked well for me. I haven't caught any viruses or colds while using it, so I recommend it – Ana
‘Big thumbs up!’ iüVitalizer seems to have made a noticeable difference to my energy levels with the impact being felt 1-2 hours after taking it and then lasting throughout the day. My cognitive focus also appears to be a lot sharper, even when juggling a number of work and life issues at the same time. I'm recommending iüVitalizer to a number of friends and family as a result. - Jon C.
References
Aartsma-Rus, A., & van Putten, M. (2014). Assessing functional performance in the mdx mouse model. Journal of Visualized Experiments, (85), e51303.
Birnkrant, D.J., Bushby, K., Bann, C.M., Apkon, S.D., Blackwell, A., Brumbaugh, D., ... & Case, L.E. (2018). Diagnosis and management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, part 2: respiratory, cardiac, bone health, and orthopaedic management. The Lancet Neurology, 17(4), 347-361.
Bushby, K., Finkel, R., Birnkrant, D.J., Case, L.E., Clemens, P.R., Cripe, L., ... & Escolar, D.M. (2010). Diagnosis and management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, part 1: diagnosis, and pharmacological and psychosocial management. The Lancet Neurology, 9(1), 77-93.
CureDuchenne. (n.d.). About us. Retrieved from https://www.cureduchenne.org/about/
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) - Overview | Muscular Dystrophy UK. (n.d.). www.musculardystrophyuk.org. https://www.musculardystrophyuk.org/conditions/duchenne-muscular-dystrophy-dmd#:~:text=Duchenne%20muscular%20dystrophy%20is%20a%20serious%20condition%20that%20causes%20progressive
Eagle, M., Baudouin, S.V., Chandler, C., Giddings, D.R., Bullock, R., Bushby, K. (2002). Survival in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: improvements in life expectancy since 1967 and the impact of home nocturnal ventilation. Neuromuscular Disorders, 12(10), 926-929.
Emery, A.E. (2002). The muscular dystrophies. The Lancet, 359(9307), 687-695.
Hoffman, E.P., & Brown Jr, R.H. (1987). Kunkel LM. Dystrophin: the protein product of the Duchenne muscular dystrophy locus. Cell, 51(6), 919-928.
Hoffman, E.P., & Brown Jr, R.H. (1987). Kunkel LM. Dystrophin: the protein product of the Duchenne muscular dystrophy locus. Cell, 51(6), 919-928.
Mah, J.K., Korngut, L., Dykeman, J., Day, L., Pringsheim, T., Jette, N. (2014). A systematic review and meta-analysis on the epidemiology of Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy. Neuromuscular Disorders, 24(6), 482-491.
Mendell, J.R., Shilling, C., Leslie, N.D., Flanigan, K.M., al-Dahhak, R., Gastier-Foster, J., ... & Lewis, S. (2012). Evidence-based path to newborn screening for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Annals of Neurology: Official Journal of the American Neurological Association and the Child Neurology Society, 71(3), 304-313.
Muscular Dystrophy UK. (n.d.). Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Retrieved from https://www.musculardystrophyuk.org/about-muscle-wasting-conditions/duchenne-muscular-dystrophy/
Ryder, S., Leadley, R.M., Armstrong, N., Westwood, M., de Kock, S., Butt, T., ... & Kleijnen, J. (2017). The burden, epidemiology, costs and treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy: an evidence review. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, 12(1), 79.