North Central Chapter
Research
Nationwide RA Study being Conducted
Volunteers needed to participate in clinical research studies
Researchers are now seeking patients to participate in three clinical research studies. The studies will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an investigational drug in combination with methotrexate and/or other non-biologic, disease-modifying, anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), as compared to using methotrexate and/or other non-biologic DMARDs alone, in treating patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
The goal of current RA treatments is to maintain normal joint function by alleviating pain, preventing joint damage, and reducing joint swelling and stiffness. During the last decade, many new treatment therapies have entered clinical practice for RA. However, many patients still do not respond adequately to the available treatments. There remains a significant unmet need for new, effective therapies for patients with this chronic condition.
To be eligible to participate in the studies, volunteers must meet specific criteria including having a diagnosis of active RA and being 18 years of age or older. To learn more about the studies, call toll free 1-877-STUDY17 (788-3917) or visit www.researchra.com.
The acceptance of advertising for participants for research studies in this publication does not constitute or imply endorsement by the Arthritis Foundation or any of its chapters of any advertised research protocol. People interested in volunteering for research studies should consult their physicians before enrolling in any research study. The Arthritis Foundation accepts no responsibility for any ill effects arising from participation in any research study.
The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, non-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world. The Arthritis Foundation has invested more than $272 million on research to support more than 2,100 scientists, physicians and health professionals involved in cutting-edge arthritis research.
Locally, the Arthritis Foundation North Central Chapter is also proud to support research. The North Central Chapter offers grants to meet the unique research needs in our chapter area. The purpose of this grant program is to fund highly meritorious and innovative research programs that meet the mission of the Arthritis Foundation within our chapter area.
Congratulations to the following three researchers. The North Central Chapter Board of Directors approved their grant proposals for 2008 funding.
Ward Glasoe: Dept. of Physical Therapy at the University of Minnesota
Genesis of Bunion and the Development of Treatment Strategies
One year grant
John Davis III, M.D.: Division of Rheumatology, Mayo Clinic
Serum Cytokine Profiles and Response to Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Two year grant
Koho Lizuka, M.D.: Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, University of Minnesota
Regulation of Mast Cell Activation of SHP-1 in Inflammatory Arthritis
One year grant
The North Central Chapter local research funding cycle will resume in February 2009.
