A Major Step Forward

We are proud to announce that Cure As One has signed a Gift Agreement with the Victoria University of Wellington Foundation, donating $90,000 to fund early-stage ECHS1D research at Te Kāuru — Ferrier Research Institute in 2026.

This funding has established the Cure As One ECHS1D Research Fund — a dedicated fund carrying Mika’s legacy into the laboratory.

What will the research involve?

Researchers at Ferrier will investigate a promising treatment approach called substrate reduction therapy (SRT). In ECHS1 Deficiency, the body cannot process the essential amino acid, valine, which our bodies need to survive. As a result, toxic metabolites accumulate which damage the brain and other organs. The research team will focus on identifying a specific enzyme that contributes to the production of these compounds — and then test new compounds designed to block it.

The study will determine whether this is a viable approach that could be developed into a future medicine. Treatment options for ECHS1D are currently very limited, making this research a meaningful and important step.

This milestone would not have been possible without the generosity of everyone who has donated, fundraised, and supported Cure As One since we launched. Thank you.