A collaborative multiomic approach to pediatric scleroderma (CMAPS) to molecularly characterize and stratify patients

The University of Pittsburgh received a $2.67 million Project Grant from the Defense Health Agency under the Military Medical Research and Development program (CFDA 12.420) awarded August 15, 2025, with a completion date of August 14, 2029. The grant funds "A Collaborative Multiomic Approach to Pediatric Scleroderma (CMAPS) to Molecularly Characterize and Stratify Patients," a research initiative designed to advance the understanding and treatment of pediatric scleroderma through comprehensive molecular characterization and patient stratification. This hypothesis-driven research aligns with the Defense Health Agency's mission to transform healthcare for service members and the American public through innovative biomedical solutions addressing critical health challenges.

Under this award, the University of Pittsburgh serves as the prime grantee and conducts research activities in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with collaborative support from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center as a sub-grantee (award date February 2, 2026). The project delivers specialized research and development services, including multiomic analysis, biomarker discovery, and patient stratification methodologies that support translational research objectives in pediatric rheumatologic disease. These research outputs are expected to contribute to improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for pediatric scleroderma patients and advance the broader federal investment in precision medicine and disease characterization research.