The ANRF Chronicle | July 2023 – Arthritis National Research Foundation

The Arthritis National Research Foundation is proud to announce the 2023 – 2024 scholar cohort embarking on a journey to revolutionize the understanding and treatment of arthritis and autoimmune diseases. With an unwavering commitment to advancing scientific breakthroughs, ANRF has awarded its largest-ever funding allocation to support groundbreaking research.

This cohort showcases remarkable achievements, including the pioneering investigation of VEXAS Syndrome, a rare and often fatal disorder. Their proposals received a rigorous review from ANRF’s Scientific Advisory Board, and the most promising investigations were selected. Each scientist brings a fresh eye to the challenges across the spectrum of arthritis and autoimmune diseases with research focused on Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Lupus, Gout, Psoriatic Arthritis, Juvenile Arthritis, Scleroderma, and more. By directing significant resources toward these underserved areas, ANRF aims to advance treatment options, enhance patient care, and ultimately improve the quality of life for millions of individuals affected by these conditions.

Visit the ANRF website to learn more about each scientist and the focus of their research.

Over 300,000 kids are affected by Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, and we want them to know they aren’t alone in the fight. Will you join us?

Snap a photo wearing your best superhero costume, post it to social media using the hashtag #JIASUPERSQUAD by July 23rd, and let’s make a BIG impact for the smallest arthritis warriors!

When you post a photo, you’ll be entered to win a $100 Amazon gift card, and there are categories for individuals/families, pets, and companies, all judged by our team of JIA warriors. Don’t have a fancy costume? No problem! Grab a headband, napkin, or tablecloth and create your superhero look from what you have.

Let’s show these kids how much we care and be the hero they need for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Awareness Month!

Want to support JIA research? Click here!

I first became interested in immunology during college and completed a B.S. in Biological Sciences at Stanford University. My interest in the role of cytokines and innate immune effector cells developed while working on my master’s degree at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. This project piqued my interest in investigating the functions of complex interactions of cytokine signals by innate immune effector cells.

I continued to delve into the effect of cytokines in innate immune cells while pursuing my Ph.D. in Immunology at Washington University in St Louis where I investigated the effect of interferon gamma on macrophages in regulating viral replication. Through medical school and my pediatrics residency, I became interested in the role of cytokines in the pathogenesis and treatment of rheumatic diseases; specifically, I developed a strong interest in MAS, a form of secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (sHLH), which can develop as a complication of rheumatic disease.

I completed pediatric rheumatology fellowship training at UW/Seattle Children’s Hospital in 2021 and am excited to have the opportunity to continue my career as a physician-scientist with the support of the Arthritis National Research Foundation.

Learn more about Susan and all of the 2023 – 2024 ANRF Scholars here!

ANRF released a new Scleroderma fact sheet.

Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks your skin and other connective tissues. These tissues are tendons and cartilage that protect and support your body. Scleroderma can change how your skin looks, creating patches of hard or discolored skin or scars.

Click the link below to access the latest information on the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this rare autoimmune disease.