OUR MISSION
OFAS is a non-profit institution dedicated to biomedical research to prevent, halt, or reverse those disorders that decrease the quality or length of life.
Origins of OFAS
Norman Orentreich, MD, FACP, founded the Orentreich Foundation for the Advancement of Science, Inc., in 1961. Early investigations sprang naturally from his clinical work as a dermatologist as well as from his interest in the aging and wound healing studies of Alexis Carrell, a pioneer in the field of aging research.
In time, OFAS was dedicated to biomedical research that prevents, halts, or reverses those disorders that decrease the quality or length of life. Under Dr. Orentreich’s guidance, research at OFAS expanded to encompass aging, cancer, dermatology, and serum biomarkers, resulting in an extensive list of papers in peer-reviewed publications.
In the mid-1980s, the need for new facilities became fully realized. Our laboratories were spread throughout New York City. As our research program grew and our need to have each laboratory work in close collaboration with each other, we began to look for a new location where we could fully integrate our labs. We found the perfect location in Cold Spring-on-Hudson, NY. With space for all labs in one building (and room to grow) and a most picturesque setting, our move 60 miles upstate satisfied on both the scientific and aesthetic level.
Once we were fully settled in our new location, we began work on research that remains central to our program: life extension through methionine restriction. OFAS has been on the forefront of this research for over 30 years. Our discoveries have led to dozens of publications in the field and collaborations with scientists on three continents pursuing this dynamic topic.
HISTORY
Our Founder
Dr. Norman Orentreich
1922 -2019
Norman Orentreich received his MD degree from New York University College of Medicine in 1948. He became a diplomate of the National Board of Medical Examiners in 1949 and American Board of Dermatology in 1953. During his post-graduate training at New York University’s Skin and Cancer hospital, Dr. Orentreich pioneered the research, creation, and performance of the very first hair transplant to treat male pattern baldness.
After having established his dermatology practice (OMG, LLP), he went on to found the biomedical research organization known as the Orentreich Foundation for the Advancement of Science, Inc. (OFAS). In 1968, Dr. Orentreich collaborated with Carol Phillips and the Lauder family to develop the internationally renowned skincare product line, Clinique. In 1970, he became the first President of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Orentreich created and developed multiple procedures and treatments for skin, hair, and nail maintenance. He invented and patented medicines and medical devices for rejuvenating scarred and aging skin. He also wrote hundreds of articles and book chapters for medical textbooks and journals.
Under Dr. Orentreich’s guidance, research at OFAS expanded to encompass aging, cancer, dermatology, and serum biomarkers, resulting in numerous peer-reviewed publications.
Dr. Orentreich passed away on January 23, 2019; however, his legacy prevails as OFAS continues its dedication to the prevention, suspension, or reversal of those disorders that decrease the quality or length of life.