Recipient of the 2014 Hope Pilot Grant Award Announced

3/26/14
Funded study to explore signaling pathway of certain cells in eosinophilic esophagitis
A promising research study that will focus on an innovative approach to define the underlying mechanism of the development of EoE has been awarded anAPFED HOPE Pilot Research Grant award .
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a rare disease that is increasing in prevalence. It is characterized by having above normal amounts of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the esophagus lining (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach), causing inflammation and damage. EoE is a chronic condition and there is no cure.
Joanne Masterson, PhD, of University of Colorado Denver and Children’s Hospital Colorado, was announced as recipient of a $50,000 for her project tilted, “ HIF signaling and mucosal healing in EoE”. Dr. Masterson’s research will provide a greater understanding of the signaling pathway of certain cells involved with EoE as they relate to inflammation caused by oxygen deficiency in cells and tissue. Her research will help determine whether or not this signaling mediates a critical link between conditions that cause inflammation and how the mucosal tissue heals after it is damaged by EoE.
“Dr. Masterson’s research will be a valuable contribution to the research of eosinophil-associated diseases,” said APFED Executive Director Mary Jo Strobel. “Currently, there are no FDA-approved treatments for EoE. Symptoms are controlled through diet and steroids. Gaining a better understanding of the mechanisms that contribute to a cell’s involvement in EoE could lead us to new ways to treat this disease.”
APFED’s competitive research grant program, the Hope on the Horizon Research Fund, is supported entirely by donations and has contributed more than $1.6 million for the research of eosinophil-associated diseases since the fund began in 2005. HOPE Pilot awards allow investigators from a variety of disciplines to initiate new projects relevant to eosinophil-associated diseases, with a focus on the development of new ideas which are likely to lead to future external funding.
For more information about eosinophil-associated diseases and the projects that the Hope on the Horizon Research Fund has supported, visit www.apfed.org.
About American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED)
American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to passionately embrace, support, and improve the lives of patients and families affected by eosinophil-associated diseases through education and awareness, research, support, and advocacy. www.apfed.org