Ten years ago, the treatment landscape for myositis diseases was, let’s be honest, bleak. We had no FDA-approved treatments for myositis. Only one or two clinical trials were available to test new treatments for this community, and those trials failed. Today, that landscape is much more hopeful, and TMA’s Research Grants Program has been part of the progress.
Today, we do have an approved treatment: intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) for dermatomyositis. Another treatment is expected to be sent to the FDA for approval early next year. Hope is on the way for other conditions with more than a dozen therapies currently in clinical trials and more on the way. And TMA support for myositis basic research, early pilot projects, and research fellowships has laid the groundwork for larger projects that are now bearing fruit.
Since 2002, The Myositis Association (TMA) has been a driving force behind groundbreaking research in the fight against myositis. TMA has made scientific research the cornerstone of its mission—investing in innovative studies that aim to uncover the causes, improve diagnosis, and develop effective treatments for this complex group of rare muscle diseases.
Over more than 20 years, TMA has awarded nearly $10 million in funding to 68 research projects from around the world. These projects span the spectrum of myositis-related diseases and specialties, from basic science to clinical applications. Our average grant award is approximately $120,000, a meaningful investment that has helped launch careers, build research programs, and bring new hope to patients.
Global Reach, Local Impact
- 43% of TMA-funded projects have gone to non-U.S. investigators, reflecting our commitment to global collaboration.
- 32% of grants have supported early-career researchers, helping to cultivate the next generation of myositis experts.
- 22 Fellowship Grants have been awarded, many of which have led to long-term leadership in the field.
“This grant has been transformative for my career, significantly enhancing my expertise in autoantibody quantification and proteomics while opening doors to impactful collaborations and clinical opportunities.”
— Julio Huapaya, MD, TMA Fellowship Grant recipient
From Pilot Projects to Breakthroughs
TMA’s support has led to tangible scientific advances. For example:
- Dr. Thomas Lloyd developed a xenograft model of IBM, significantly advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and therapeutic pathways.
- In the UK, Dr. Sarah Tansley’s work on myositis-specific autoantibody (MSA) testing is improving diagnostic accuracy by reducing false results caused by poor testing procedures.
- Dr. Conrad “Chris” Weihl’s pilot project identified a promising therapeutic target for inclusion body myositis (IBM), now being modeled in cells and mice.
Training Tomorrow’s Leaders
TMA’s fellowship recipients have gone on to become:
- Members of the TMA Medical Advisory Board
- Founders and leaders of myositis research organizations like the International Myositis Society (IMyoS) and the Myositis Clinical Trials Consortium (MCTC)
- Professors, department heads, and research scientists at top institutions
- Contributors to international myositis consortia and study groups
- Principal investigators on some of the world’s most significant myositis research projects and clinical trials
“This award allowed me to continue to focus on research in myositis-ILD. Had it not been for this award, I would no longer be conducting research in patients with myositis.”
— Cheilonda Johnson, MD, MHS, TMA Pilot Grant recipient
Looking Ahead
TMA’s Research Grants Program continues to be a catalyst for discovery, collaboration, and hope. By investing in promising scientists and bold ideas, TMA is not only advancing the science of myositis but also building a future where patients can look forward to better treatments—and ultimately, a cure.
Learn more about TMA’s research funding and how you can support the next breakthrough.