The Canadian Cancer Society and the University Health Network, with support from the Toronto Elisabeth Raab Accelerator of Science to End Neurofibromatosis, have teamed up to provide funding for research projects investigating the connection between neurofibromatosis type 1 and cancer. This initiative focuses on Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a hereditary disease caused by alterations in the NF1 gene, which plays a role in producing the neurofibromin protein.
The research grants aim to bring together cancer researchers and experts in neurofibromatosis to enhance understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying cancer in NF1. The ultimate objective is to identify ways to prevent cancer, enable early detection, and improve treatment outcomes. The program encourages collaborative projects exploring various aspects of disease management and patient care, integrating clinical, translational, and technological advancements.
Key goals of the initiative include fostering collaborations between the neurofibromatosis and cancer communities, involving experts from diverse fields to drive innovation, and creating opportunities for early career researchers to contribute to research teams. The funding envelope for this program totals $2 million over three years, with a portion designated for breast cancer research.
Eligible projects may focus on enhancing quality of life for individuals with NF-related cancers, improving cancer screening and detection, developing pre-clinical models and therapeutic strategies, conducting genomic studies, investigating signaling pathways in tumor progression, and exploring novel approaches to managing cancer in NF1 patients. Funding covers direct research costs such as supplies, salaries, and equipment.
Researchers from various disciplines and career stages are encouraged to apply, with a particular emphasis on engaging individuals with lived experience of NF1 in the research process. Applications will be evaluated based on criteria including alignment with program goals, originality of proposed work, collaboration potential, methodological soundness, and team qualifications. Detailed application requirements and guidelines can be found on the Canadian Cancer Society website.
For more information and to access the application portal, please visit the Canadian Cancer Society’s website: Canadian Cancer Society.
Source: fundsforindividuals.fundsforngos.org…
