John Ruth, BSBA ’08, is a Mizzoumade leader and former student-athlete. Starting out as a Tiger Football walk-on, he helped his team secure a Cotton Bowl victory in 2008 before graduating and launching a successful finance career. He and his wife Kasey, BSEd ’08, started their family in John’s hometown of Jefferson City, where they welcomed their daughter, Kamdyn, in 2013.

After Kamdyn was born and following years of genetic testing, the family learned she had an ultra-rare neurodevelopmental disorder called Baker-Gordon Syndrome, a mutation of the SYT1 gene and also known as SYT1-Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorder. Determined to find answers and help others also navigating a rare disease diagnosis, the Ruths established the Genetic Autism Alliance nonprofit to accelerate therapeutic research for genetic disorders. They also looked to their alma mater, where the commitment to excellence inspires achievements across the university, from wins on the field to transformative discoveries in research.

Now, uniting the Ruths’ passion, Mizzou’s world-class faculty and significant support from Missouri leaders, we’re launching an extraordinary initiative that will save and improve countless lives, including those of Missouri’s youngest patients.

Thanks to an incredible $10 million investment from the State of Missouri and the support of the Genetic Autism Alliance, we are pleased to announce the Center for Translational Neurogenetics. Led by Mizzou physician and researcher Dr. David Arnold, executive director of the NextGen Precision Health initiative, this new center further establishes Mizzou as a national hub of breakthrough therapies for the rarest diseases.

Dr. Arnold was recruited to Mizzou from Ohio State University and is among the top neuroscience researchers in the country. As part of an international research team, he was recently the first physician in the world to deliver a pioneering new ALS therapy for an MU Health Care patient, and he will continue to break new ground with the Center for Translational Neurogenetics.

Using NextGen’s state-of-the-art resources, our faculty will create rapid, scalable treatments for rare diseases, including Baker-Gordon Syndrome. Bringing together Mizzou’s proven strengths in translational research and the latest in gene therapy, the center will deliver faster diagnoses while also developing tailored care that isn’t available anywhere else.

John, Kasey and their family are thrilled at what will be achieved through the Center for Translational Neurogenetics and the hope it offers for the 1 in 10 people affected by a rare disease. Mizzou is proud to uphold our land-grant mission by advancing excellence in research that helps kids, and all Missourians, lead happy, healthy lives.

— Mun