NIH conference conveys to study smiling disorder

Did you know that there's a disorder called Moebius syndrome? Neither did I.

I just got an emailed press release from Jacob Licht, who writes that he is on the board of directors of the Moebius Syndrome Foundation and that he has a daughter with the condition, which he describes as follows:

"Moebius Syndrome is a rare neurological condition that causes facial paralysis, preventing its victims from smiling from birth. While Moebius Syndrome is not life-threatening, it is life altering, since those with Moebius Syndrome are unable to show any facial expressions and have speech impediments. Compared to other disorders, little is known about Moebius Syndrome. ... Moebius syndrome affects the 6th and 7th cranial nerves, preventing those afflicted with it from moving their faces and eyes, as well as sometimes causing hand/feet anomalies, respiratory problems, sensory issues and weak upper body strength."

Today and tomorrow, a panel of experts is assembling under the aegis of the NIH to discuss the challenges facing research into this disorder. I wish them luck.