Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has announced a series of grants totaling more than $10 million from the Gilbert Family Foundation to fund neurofibromatosis (NF) research. 

The grants will support NF research through CHOP’s Neurofibromatosis Program and support studies within the program that develop evidence-based or “standard of care” guidelines for the management of children with NF1-associated brain tumors (a genetic disorder that can affect multiple systems of the body and is characterized by symptoms that include skin changes, skeletal abnormalities, and tumors) occurring outside of the visual pathway, research to determine clinical and molecular risk factors for the development and outcomes of NF1-related high-grade glioma (HGG), and research that will lead to the discovery of immunotherapy targets for NF-associated HGG, which currently lacks effective therapies.

Giving Pledgers Dan and Jennifer Gilbert established their foundation in 2015 in part to provide support for NF research. Their eldest son, Nick, was born with the disease, and the Gilberts have committed a large part of their philanthropic giving to fighting diseases such as NF.

“Research is an essential component of our Neurofibromatosis Program. Our multidisciplinary team of experts in neuro-oncology, neuro-ophthalmology, neurology, genetics, pediatrics, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and other specialties seeks to improve the care and outcomes of those with neurofibromatosis,” said Michael Fisher, CHOP section chief of neuro-oncology and director of the NF program. “These grants from the Gilbert Family Foundation will allow us to conduct crucial studies that we hope will eventually lead to better treatments for those with NF1.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Sean Pavone)