The Histiocytosis Association Research Program provides funding for two different types of scientific research: basic and clinical. Basic science research focuses on understanding the function of cells and the disease process; it is generally conducted in a laboratory under controlled settings. Clinical science research uses the knowledge that is generated through basic research and applies it directly to the treatment of patients. These forms of research complement one another; both are necessary in the quest for better treatments and a cure for the histiocytic disorders.

The Association also supports Histiocyte Society approved and sponsored clinical trials. In the past, the Association has provided funding for the LCH-I, LCH-II, LCH-III, HLH 94 and HLH 2004 studies. The Association has recently continued its support of these studies by providing funding for the clinical trial, LCH-IV Treatment Protocol Study, which is expected to open in early 2011.

Through its Annual Grant Funding Process, the Association facilitates funding for these types of research. The Association began this annual process in 1992 by awarding ten grants, averaging $10,000 each. As of April 2010, the Association has funded 135 grants for a total of over $4.2 million dollars. Awards that began at $10,000 have now grown to an average of $50,000 per project.

Of the more than $4.2 million dollars that the Association has distributed through its Research Program, $275,000 has been provided by the Histiocytosis Association of Canada (HAC). This considerable, sustained financial commitment by the HAC is a testament to the internationally recognized success and quality of the Association’s Research Program.

Read more about the Annual Grant Funding Process