Who We Are

BRF is a research consortium founded in 2006 by patients and their family members in Corvallis, Oregon.  We are governed by a 4-member board of director.  We work with scientists around the world to help make sure doctors have the tools they need to address Blastocystis ‘hominis’ infection.

BRF relies entirely on private donations to support our programs.  We do not receive any support from any US federal or state agency.  Additionally, those agencies do not support any research into the infection in US patients by any scientific organization.

BRF is pioneering a new way of performing biomedical research.  At BRF, we link scientists from different disciplines across international borders to create cross-functional teams.  This allows us to deliver solutions to physicians quickly and inexpensively.

At BRF, we are committed to our operating principles which support the use of rigorous scientific methodologies in medicine.

BRF History

April 2006: BRF Incorporated in State of Oregon

November 2006: BRF begins program with Oregon State University to investigate Blastocystis ‘hominis’ as a cause of chronic gastrointestinal illness in Willamette Valley.

January 14, 2007: Corvallis Gazette-Times publishes story on Blastocystis ‘hominis’ infection in Oregon.

February 7, 2007: Representative Sara Gelser introducesHB2699 into Oregon State Legislature to require Blastocystis ‘hominis’ infection to be reported.

Read more about BRF History


Interesting Facts about BRF

  • BRF’s corporate governance has over 100 collective years of infectious disease experience.
  • BRF was founded in 2006 by patients and their family members in Corvallis, Oregon.
  • Every US study of Blastocystis ‘hominis‘ in US patients published in the 21st century has been organized or co-authored by BRF.
  • BRF published its first paper in 2006.
  • BRF organized its first US study in 2007.
  • BRF published its first international review in 2008.
  • The original operating name, “The Foundation for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Blastocystis hominis” was shortened to the “Blastocystis Research Foundation” in 2006.
  • BRF is the only source of coordination for Blastocystis ‘hominis’ research in the US.  The NIH and CDC have not supported any research into Blastocystis ‘hominis’ infection in US patients since 1995