Mark Egly Foundation

Funding Opportunities

Advancing Alpha-1 Research Together

The Mark Egly Foundation is deeply grateful for the dedicated researchers who have advanced our understanding of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Your work has saved lives, brought hope to families, and illuminated the complex role of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in human health.

Yet there is so much more to discover.

A New Research Frontier

Mark Egly's groundbreaking research and patent filing have opened unprecedented avenues for scientific investigation. The extensive connections between Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and numerous conditions—from autoimmune diseases to cancer—present researchers with compelling questions that could reshape medical practice for generations.

We believe the research opportunities ahead will keep the scientific community engaged for decades to come.

Our Commitment to Research Excellence

The Mark Egly Foundation is working tirelessly to:

  • Accelerate research into Alpha-1 mechanisms and treatments
  • Fund innovative studies exploring the full spectrum of AATD effects
  • Support cure development and disease prevention strategies
  • Foster collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and patients
  • Investigate conditions identified in Mark's comprehensive patent filing

Priority Research Areas

We are particularly interested in supporting research that explores:

1. Early Detection & Diagnosis
  • Universal newborn screening implementation and outcomes
  • Novel diagnostic biomarkers beyond traditional allele testing
  • Improved screening protocols for at-risk populations
  • Genetic counseling best practices
2. Disease Mechanisms
  • The role of AAT in protecting tissues throughout the body
  • Protein misfolding and liver disease progression
  • Inflammatory processes in AAT-deficient individuals
  • Connections between AATD and autoimmune conditions
3. Treatment Innovation
  • Augmentation therapy optimization and delivery methods
  • Gene therapy and genetic correction approaches
  • Novel therapeutic targets for AATD-related conditions
  • Personalized medicine based on genetic profiles
4. Expanded Clinical Manifestations
  • Investigation of the 152+ autoimmune diseases linked to AATD
  • Cancer risk and prevention in Alpha-1 patients
  • Neurological manifestations (MS, ALS, Alzheimer's, dementia)
  • Gastrointestinal complications (IBS, Crohn's disease)
  • Respiratory conditions beyond traditional COPD
5. Quality of Life & Patient Outcomes
  • Long-term outcomes with early intervention
  • Lifestyle modifications and their impact
  • Mental health and psychosocial support effectiveness
  • Caregiver burden and support strategies

Funding Information

Coming Soon

The Mark Egly Foundation is actively developing our research grant program. We are committed to providing meaningful funding opportunities that will accelerate breakthroughs in Alpha-1 research.

Grant Program Details:

  • Application guidelines and eligibility criteria
  • Funding amounts and duration
  • Review process and timeline
  • Collaborative research opportunities

Pre-Application Interest

While we finalize our formal grant program, we invite researchers to express interest in funding opportunities:

Submit Your Research Concept:

  • Brief description of your proposed research
  • Relevance to Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
  • Expected impact on patient outcomes
  • Preliminary budget estimate

Current Opportunities

Research Partnerships

We welcome collaboration with academic institutions, medical centers, and research organizations pursuing Alpha-1 investigations aligned with our mission.

Data Sharing Initiatives

Access to patient data, genetic information, and clinical outcomes through partnerships with Alpha-1 communities and healthcare providers.

Clinical Trial Support

Assistance with patient recruitment, community engagement, and trial awareness for AATD-related clinical studies.

For Researchers: How to Connect

Express Your Interest

Contact the Mark Egly Foundation research team to:

  • Discuss potential funding opportunities
  • Explore collaborative research projects
  • Share preliminary findings or proposals
  • Learn about our research priorities and strategic goals

Stay Informed

Newsletter Subscription

Receive updates about funding announcements, research opportunities, and Alpha-1 scientific developments.

Research Network

Join our community of Alpha-1 researchers to share insights, collaborate on studies, and advance the field together.

What We Look For

Competitive research proposals will demonstrate:

  • Scientific rigor and sound methodology
  • Patient-centered focus with clear clinical relevance
  • Innovation that advances beyond current understanding
  • Feasibility with realistic timelines and budgets
  • Impact potential for improving diagnosis, treatment, or quality of life
  • Collaboration across disciplines when appropriate

Building a Brighter Future

Mark Egly's vision was a world where Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency is recognized early, understood completely, and treated effectively. Every research project brings us closer to that reality.

Partner With Us

Whether you're an established researcher or an early-career investigator with innovative ideas, the Mark Egly Foundation wants to hear from you. Together, we can transform the landscape of Alpha-1 care and give hope to millions who may be living with undiagnosed AATD.

Contact Research Grants Department:

[Contact information to be added]

"Research is not just about discovering what we don't know—it's about ensuring that knowledge saves lives."
— In honor of Mark Egly, whose curiosity changed everything