MCTO Research Grant Program

Mission: Sophie's Neighborhood is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to research and treatment development of a rare genetic disorder, Multicentric Carpotarsal Osteolysis (MCTO).

Disease Background

Multicentric Carpotarsal Osteolysis is a rare and progressively destructive skeletal disorder affecting the bones of the wrists, feet and other joints. It creates severe deformities, pain, and joint function loss. The disorder is commonly associated with nephropathy, ranging from mild to end stage kidney failure. MCTO is caused by mutations in the MAFB gene.

Research Focus & Funding Priorities

Grants should focus on discovering therapeutic approaches to MCTO, including:

• Molecular mechanisms research using genetically modified MCTO mouse models
• Pre-clinical research involving screening compounds against MCTO cell lines or mouse models, or therapies with curative potential
• MAFB mutation assessment to understand how bone building and bone lysis can be corrected
• Bone specificity research to elucidate why MCTO has a proclivity to carpal and tarsal bones, plus other bones in joints, and its renal features
• Translational research with potential to lead to effective therapeutics

Grant Structure

• Award Term: One-year research grants with a possible second year contingent on progress reports and criteria achieved in year one, subject to availability of funds
• Eligibility: Researchers must have a doctoral degree (MD or PhD)
• Applications: Must be submitted in English

Funding Restrictions

Grant funds CANNOT be used for:

• Indirect or overhead costs
• Facilities and administration
• Office supplies
• Office equipment
• Travel costs

Scientific Advisory Board

The organization has established a scientific advisory board that vets applications and awards funding to qualified researchers.

Grant Application Process

Step 1: Request Application
Email hello@sophiesneighborhood.org to receive the grant application packet.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials
Submit a comprehensive proposal that includes:

1. Proposal Summary
   • Description of proposed work
   • How the project fits into Sophie's Neighborhood's mission to find an effective therapeutic to treat or cure MCTO
2. Budget
   • Detailed justification for how funds will be used to achieve project goals
   • Note: Facilities and administration, office supplies, office equipment, indirect costs, and travel costs are NOT permitted
3. Biographical Biosketch/Curriculum Vitae
   • Qualifications and experiences for researcher's specific role in the project
4. Research Proposal
   • Hypothesis to be tested
   • How hypothesis will be tested and applied
   • Translational significance of the research
5. Project Timeline
   • Clear definition of milestones and project goals within the grant period

Step 3: Data Sharing Plan

• Applicants should use NIH Example Plans for Sharing of Model Organisms as a guide for Sophie's Neighborhood's expectations regarding data and organism sharing

Step 4: Submit Application

• Email completed proposal to: hello@sophiesneighborhood.org
• Subject line: "MCTO Grant Proposal Submission"
• By submitting a proposal, you acknowledge adherence to the terms and conditions outlined in the application packet

Language Requirement

• All applications must be in English