LFA seeks grant applications to address important areas of lupus research

The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) seeks grant applications to advance the science and medicine of lupus and to help improve the quality of lives of all people affected by this disease. The LFA is seeking grant applications to address the following areas of lupus research: cutaneous (skin) lupus, pediatric lupus, adult stem cell transplantation, and neuropsychiatric lupus, which affects the brain and nervous system.

The LFA's National Research Program, Bringing Down the Barriers™, provides direct funding for researchers at universities and medical institutions nationwide. The LFA is the only national organization to launch the first-ever pediatric lupus research program through its Michael Jon Barlin Pediatric Research Program, which was established with the generous support of the Wallace H. Coulter Foundation.

In addition to its ability to affect almost any part of a person's body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, and/or blood, lupus can also severely affect the nervous system and brain, which is why neuropsychiatric lupus (or central nervous system lupus) is of vital focus. When lupus targets the central nervous system, the person may experience seizures, depression among other symptoms, some of which are life threatening. And although these symptoms may suddenly come and go, those affected by this chronic disease will have to cope with its effects for the rest of their lives.

The LFA is also accepting applications for its Gina M. Finzi Memorial Student Summer Fellowship Program, which seeks to foster an interest in lupus research among students under the supervision of an established investigator. Named after the daughter of former LFA President Dr. Sergio Finzi, the Gina M. Finzi Memorial Student Summer Fellowship Program has supported the work of approximately 200 young investigators since it was founded in 1984. Undergraduate, graduate, and medical students are eligible to apply; however, preference is given to students with a college degree.