Cystinosis Foundation UK

The Cystinosis Foundation UK is a voluntary organization whose mission is to support research to find improved treatments for cystinosis. Cystinosis is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the impaired transport of the amino acid cystine out of parts of cells called lysosomes in many organs of the body including the kidneys, eyes, liver, muscles, pancreas, brain and white blood cells. Lysosomes are membrane bound particles within cells that aid in the breakdown of cellular substances, some of which are harmful. Cystine crystallizes in these cells and slowly destroys the organs.