The Registry was established in 1997 by the Alpha-1 Foundation to facilitate research initiatives and promote the development of improved treatments and a cure for Alpha-1. Located at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) in Charleston, the Registry employs procedures that ensure the most stringent confidentiality of participants. The Registry operates under the direction of the Alpha-1 Foundation Board of Directors and is guided by an Advisory Committee comprised of leaders in the medical, ethical, scientific and Alpha communities. Individuals enrolled in the Registry have the ongoing opportunity to participate directly in clinical trials of new therapeutic approaches in addition to other research opportunities.