We are excited to announce that the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation (MDF) has approved over $700,000 in funding for DM research through our Research Fellowship and Early Career Grant programs, made possible by the generosity of the myotonic dystrophy (DM) donor community.
The response to these programs was remarkable. MDF received applications from doctoral students, postdoctoral researchers, and early career scientists representing six countries and multiple institutions. Applicants proposed innovative studies focused on DM pathogenesis, disease progression, clinical management, and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Following an initial review by MDF’s research team, external committees comprised of Scientific Advisory Committee members and additional DM experts evaluated applications using rigorous criteria, including scientific impact, innovation, relevance to DM, and feasibility. Out of 32 submissions, seven fellowships (doctoral and postdoctoral) and two early career awards were selected for funding, along with one short-term high-priority grant.
The funded projects cover a wide range of research, from exploring novel RNA-targeted therapies and uncovering molecular mechanisms driving DM to identifying biomarkers for monitoring disease progression and treatment response. This portfolio demonstrates a balance of basic, translational, and clinical research, supporting the development of both new knowledge and future leaders in the field.
These awards reflect the collective dedication of the DM community. Thanks to donor support, MDF is able to advance cutting-edge research, foster promising investigators, and accelerate progress toward meaningful improvements in the lives of people affected by DM.