United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation

UMDF's mission is to promote research and education for the diagnosis, treatment and cure of mitochondrial disorders and provide support to affected individuals and families.

The United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation (UMDF) focuses on coordination, communication and collaboration. We bring people and resources together to make an impact on diagnoses, treatments and a cure for mitochondrial disease. Since 1996, UMDF has provided nearly $11 million in grants to support the research that may lead to a less invasive diagnosis and ultimately a cure.

UMDF hosts an annual international symposium bringing together clinical and basic science researchers from all over the world sharing an interest in mitochondria. Patient and family attendees are given many opportunities to meet some of the top clinical mitochondrial specialists from around the world. The symposium encourages the exchange of information and cultivates networking among physicians, researchers, patients and families. A four-day scientific/clinical program and a two-day patient/family program are included. UMDF expanded its Educational component by hosting 2-day Regional Symposia offering families unable to travel to the National Symposium an opportunity to interact with mitochondrial specialists.

Our Grand Rounds program introduces and broadens the knowledge base on mitochondrial diseases.  This program provides continuing education to health care providers on topics specific to mitochondrial disorders, Grand Rounds are coupled with a special family meeting educating patients and families about the latest findings in mitochondrial disease.

Our role has become even more urgent with the scientific linkage between mitochondrial dysfunction and diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, diabetes, autism, and even the aging process itself.