Our Goals, Our Impact
01
The First JPA Mouse Model
No mouse model existed to grow Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma (JPA) cell lines, and therefore, little research existed on how these tumors would "behave" with various drugs to stop them. IAA partnered with researchers at Johns Hopkins to create a mouse model that will allow labs across the country to test the treatment potential of new molecules or medicines. In order to ensure that this development has as wide an impact as possible, we are working with the National Cancer Institute to distribute the model to any researcher who requests it.
02
Sharing Knowledge
Our mouse model is one example of how we strive to expand access to JPA knowledge. Working with NCI, and premier research labs, We will continue to find and fund research to remove the scientific barriers to new treatments. IAA joins other advocacy groups to push for investment in pediatric cancer research, and presents IAA funded research at prestigious neuro-oncology conferences.
03
Funding Scientists
IAA provides fellowships for students who are training to join the pediatric cancer research field, and supports staff doing work in oncology labs. We are currently working with two premier research hospitals. With the help of our Board and partners we fund researchers at Johns Hopkins University, led by Dr. Eric Raabe and Dr. Charles Eberhart. And, as of 2023, we provide support so Children's National Medical Center researchers can dedicate time to perform optical genome mapping (OGM) on pediatric low-grade glioma (pLGG) samples.
04
Supporting Patients
We host our "Clay Bear" Patient Program every May in support of Brain Tumor Awareness Month. This program offers comfort to patients undergoing treatment, with each Clay Bear being a soft, huggable teddy bear designed to bring warmth, companionship, and a sense of comfort during a difficult time.
Ongoing Focus
We are thrilled that IAA-sponsored work is a “force multiplier” for Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma (JPA) research. JPA research has not seen the same progress as other diseases because of underinvestment and unique scientific challenges. Our fundraising events and work with government stakeholders are helping to increase the support that Pediatric Low-Grade Astrocytoma (PLGA) research receives. We will continue our work with brilliant researchers to remove more of the scientific barriers to new treatments.
