Ionis Establishes New Grant Program to Advance Research and Understanding of ATTR

Rare Daily Staff

Ionis Pharmaceuticals said it has launched a new grant program that provides funding to U.S.-based researchers whose work advances the understanding of transthyretin amyloidosis, facilitates early diagnosis and enhances disease management of patients living with ATTR amyloidosis.

The Janice Wiesman Young Investigator Grant Program is named in honor of Janice Wiesman, a leading global expert on the neurological impact of amyloidosis who died last year. The program will provide two young investigators with an award of $50,000 annually per awardee for up to two years. It is designed to enable young investigators, including residents, fellows and junior faculty, to gain quality research experience in transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR).

ATTR amyloidosis is a rare, progressive and fatal disease that occurs when there is a buildup of abnormal (misfolded) transthyretin protein in the body’s tissues and/or organs. Most commonly it affects the peripheral nerves, heart, intestinal tract, eyes and kidneys. The progressive accumulation of amyloid deposits in the nerves leads to sensory, motor and autonomic dysfunction often having debilitating effects on multiple aspects of a patient’s life.

“The Janice Wiesman Young Investigator Grant program is an important initiative to help increase our understanding of transthyretin amyloidosis and, ultimately, to better serve patients and families living with this devastating rare disease,” said Brett Monia, CEO of Ionis.

Ionis decided to commemorate the life and work of Wiesman because of her commitment to the advancement of the field. “Her contributions to the amyloid community have left an indelible impact,” said Monia.

Researchers at eligible academic or nonprofit institutions in the United States are encouraged to submit innovative research proposals in the areas of translational, clinical, or applied research related to ATTR. Details about the program including criteria and application instructions can be found at https://www.ionispharma.com/akcea/health-care-professionals/the-janice-wiesman-young-investigator-grant-program/. The deadline for applications is Friday, April 2, 2021.

Photo: Brett Monia, CEO of Ionis.