On a mission to save vision.
Developing a personalized gene therapy for blindness caused by mutation in the KIZ gene.
Building a path forward for KIZ patients.
Creating hope along the way.
An organization by patients, for patients. We are here to ensure ultra-rare disease patients with KIZ gene mutations see the future.
In 2024, Kizuna Foundation launched with the urgent mission to develop a treatment to stop progressive vision loss caused by a mutation in the KIZ gene. Building this therapy requires a non-profit approach because the extreme rarity of this specific condition means traditional biopharma does not have the incentives to develop a treatment. This mission is personal - the impetus for Kizuna Foundation is saving the sight of Stevie and Natalie Ringel, siblings who founded the organization. Our treatment builds on proven science from similar retinal diseases, allowing us to move quickly and safely towards a treatment.
This endeavor is critical beyond KIZ patients. By developing a drug effectively in a non-profit model for ultra-rare disease patients, we light a path for other families affected by ultra-rare vision disorders to follow.
The Ringel Family funded the initial milestone on our roadmap, and now we are asking for the support of our community to fund the next stages of our plan. Together, we can make this life-changing treatment a reality for Stevie, Natalie, hundreds of patients with the KIZ gene, and thousands more who can benefit from our success.
We are grateful for your support, thank you.
What is KIZ-associated Retinitis Pigmentosa?
Everybody has a KIZ gene; Stevie & Natalie’s copy is broken.
KIZ-mutation Retinitis Pigmentosa is a rare genetic condition causing the gradual loss of vision. Starting with night blindness, it progresses to tunnel vision and eventually blindness. Our mission is to halt this degeneration and offer a brighter future to those affected.
What is Gene Replacement Therapy?
Gene Replacement Therapy replaces defective genes with healthy ones to correct genetic disorders. This cutting-edge approach has shown tremendous promise, with notable successes like restoring vision in patients with Leber’s congenital amaurosis. This therapy is at the heart of what we strive to achieve.