Soft Bones Accepting Applications for $25,000 Seed Grants for Clinical Research of HPP

Rare Daily Staff

Soft Bones: The U.S. Hypophosphatasia Foundation, which is interested in promoting the development of innovative research by new and established investigators, said it is accepting applications for funding for a seed grant of $25,000 for basic or clinical research directly related to HPP.

Hypophosphatasia or HPP is a metabolic bone condition that most often affects the development of bones and teeth. The signs and symptoms vary widely, with mild cases causing only dental abnormalities while the more severe types have life-threatening consequences. The hallmark of the disorder is bones that become soft or weakened, causing skeletal deformities, fractures, premature tooth loss and pain.

Typically, the earlier HPP symptoms become apparent, the more severe the condition. It is estimated that severe forms of HPP occur in approximately one of every 100,000 live births. While exact numbers are unknown, the milder childhood and adult forms are probably more common, and one out of every 200 Americans may be a carrier for HPP. Diagnosis is made through x-rays and blood testing and the disease is classified based on the age at which symptoms first appear.

Past recipients of the Soft Bones Research Grant include:
Steven Mumm, Ph.D., Washington University School of Medicine
Luke Mortensen, Ph.D., The University of Georgia
Brian Foster, Ph.D., The Ohio State University
Kathryn Dahir, M.D., Vanderbilt University Medical Center

The application receipt deadline is April 15, 2018 with awards to be made on May 15, 2018. Grant begins in August 2018. Proposal reviews will be conducted by the Soft Bones Scientific Advisory Board.

Proposals are welcome from faculty members at a private research center or university. Applications from senior post-doctoral trainees or research associates are acceptable provided that the individual and his/her mentor have a track record of commitment to research relevant to HPP. This grant cannot be used for investigator salaries or indirect costs.

To download an application, click here. For more information please visit www.SoftBones.org or call Denise Goodbar, Program Manager at Soft Bones, at 973-453-3093 or via email [email protected]

January 26, 2018