2025 Cure JM Grant Recipients
The 2025 grant cycle saw a strong field of new, progressive research projects from world-class researchers across the globe. The field of engaged, leading JM researchers continues to grow with studies in creating new biomarkers to more precisely predict flares, the role of blood flow in protecting muscles in JM, and integrative emotional support and mental health programs to improve the quality of life for all JM patients. We are hopeful that these and other Cure JM research projects will continue to bring life-changing impacts to all JM patients.
Research Grants
Christian Lood, PhD, Seattle Children’s Hospital and the University of Washington
Dr. Christian Lood of Seattle Children’s Hospital and the University of Washington has been awarded a one-year grant to advance juvenile myositis research. Collaborating with Jessica Turnier and Sarah Sabbagh, Dr. Lood will lead a project to develop a standardized protocol for collecting samples and measuring biomarkers. This work is critical to improving disease monitoring, identifying new treatment targets, and advancing personalized care. This is important because we know that every child responds differently to treatment and requires an individual treatment plan.
Rie Karasawa, PhD, St. Mariana University Hospital in Japan
A two-year grant has been awarded to Dr. Rie Karasawa of St. Mariana University Hospital in Japan. Dr. Karasawa will collaborate with members of Cure JM’s Clinician Care Network and work with North American partners, including Dr. Lisa Rider, to share samples. The research will focus on protein activity in blood vessel cells, which play a key role in controlling inflammation and blood flow—both of which are often disrupted in juvenile myositis. Understanding changes in these proteins can reveal how the immune system contributes to muscle damage and poor circulation, helping researchers develop better treatments to reduce inflammation and protect muscles.
Three new grants have been awarded to implement mental health screening services in rheumatology and juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) clinics at Texas Children’s Hospital, the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, and Children’s of Alabama. These initiatives recognize the stress and emotional challenges faced by children and teens living with a chronic and rare disease. By integrating mental health screening and emotional support into their care, these programs aim to provide comprehensive support for both physical and emotional well-being.