Run in partnership with the Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types.
Overview
Ichthyosis is a family of genetic skin disorders characterized by dry, scaling skin that may be thickened or very thin. Each year, more than 16,000 babies are born with some form of ichthyosis with evidence to suggest that approximately 300 babies are born each year with a moderate to severe form of ichthyosis. Aside from the common scaling condition of the skin, ichthyosis is disfiguring for most affected individuals and individuals can experience dehydration, infections, chronic blistering, overheating, and rapid-calorie loss. People with ichthyosis are subjected to psychological issues; concerns of isolation, low self-esteem, and depression are common because patients are often ostracized due to the appearance of their visible, chronically shedding skin. To date, there is no cure for ichthyosis, but dedicated researchers and physicians have and continue to develop effective ways to help manage the disorder.
To address this need, the Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types (FIRST) and the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA) are collaborating to support research investigations focused on pediatric ichthyosis and related skin types with the Pediatric Ichthyosis Challenge Grant. Through this grant, FIRST and PeDRA intend to advance a high-impact research endeavor relevant to pediatric patients and families facing the burden of ichthyosis and related conditions.
Focus
Research may include focused basic science projects addressing keratinocyte biology and differentiation, genetics, biology of skin inflammation, itch or other ichthyosis-related areas. Clinical research is also encouraged and may address improving diagnosis and/or quality of life, defining quality of life measures, and expanding knowledge about topical or systemic treatments, or specific aspects of the disease. Investigators are encouraged to utilize the National Registry for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Disorders when appropriate. Priority consideration will be given to projects led by early-to-mid-career principal investigators who are part of multidisciplinary teams including researchers, clinicians, and patient stakeholders. Applications that support FIRST’s and PeDRA’s commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion across all facets of their organizations and research are encouraged.
Important Details
- Up to $25,000 to support one year of research
- Priority consideration will be given to projects led by early-to-mid-career principal investigators who are part of multidisciplinary teams including researchers, clinicians, and patient stakeholders
- Application deadline: 11:59PM PT, Friday, January 24, 2025
