Big Ideas,
Real Impact.
The SKAN Foundation awards $50,000 exploratory research grants to leading scientists at top-tier universities and research institutions. Proposals are rigorously reviewed and selected by our world-renowned Medical and Scientific Advisory Board.
To date, we have committed funding to two multidisciplinary research teams across four leading universities, each pursuing a distinct and promising path toward understanding the biological and clinical drivers of AN.
And we are just getting started.
our funded projects
Epigenetic modifications in anorexia
Melissa Munn-Chernoff at Texas Tech University
This project combines electronic medical records and genomic data to better understand how genes and environment interact in anorexia nervosa. We’ve identified specific DNA methylation sites linked to the disorder, offering insight into its biology. Using nationwide medical records, we’ve also found connections between anorexia and digestive, metabolic, and mental health conditions—some of which may share underlying genetic causes.
Gut microbiome adaptations during refeeding
Andrea Garber at University of California San Francisco
Disruptions in the gut microbiome may make recovery from anorexia nervosa more difficult. The same microbial changes that initially help the body adapt to starvation can later interfere with efforts to renourish. At UCSF, the Garber Lab is developing precision nutrition strategies to restore a healthy microbiome and support lasting recovery.
Ready to launch?
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Ready to launch? |
The next phase of research is ready…
we just need the resources!
Promising research projects carefully reviewed by our Medical and Scientific Advisory Board are ready to begin as soon as funding is available. Your support can help move these critical studies from proposal to progress. Contact us to learn more.