Federal Project Grant Award Summary

Case Western Reserve University's Office of Research Administration received an $839,998 Project Grant award from the Defense Health Agency (DHA) under the Military Medical Research and Development program (CFDA 12.420) on July 1, 2026, with a completion date of June 30, 2028. The award supports translational research into pharmacological stabilization of the CAST-calpain-2 complex as a novel therapeutic approach for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This research initiative aligns with the DHA's mission to advance biomedical innovation addressing critical health challenges relevant to military service members and the broader American public. The research will be conducted at the university's Cleveland, Ohio facility in affiliation with University Hospitals of Cleveland.

The project deliverables encompass hypothesis-driven research activities including biomarker development, translational research execution, and therapeutic development focused on elucidating and stabilizing the CAST-calpain-2 protein complex as a potential treatment pathway for ALS. As a two-year award within the typical three to four-year performance period range for Military Medical Research and Development grants, this funding supports Case Western Reserve University's established expertise in neurodegenerative disease research, which has previously included investigations into Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology, tauopathy mechanisms, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis research mechanisms.