About Our Research

Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation

In 2006, the Foundation was created and funded the first research to be undertaken since the identification of the Ataxia gene in 2000. It was crucial to begin research in order to discover a treatment for Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS).

Since its creation, the Foundation has funded several research projects related to this neurological disorder. The Foundation is a charitable organization with no employees and is supported entirely by private donations and volunteers who support the cause. The total administration costs are less than 1% of the funds raised which allow almost all the funds to be totally dedicated to research.

Research Objectives

The main research objective of the Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation is to develop a treatment for ARSACS. Several research projects are currently funded by the Foundation in Canada and abroad. The efforts of the Foundation are concentrated currently in four main research areas:

  • ARSACS research project under the leadership of Dr. Brais.
  • Research grants to other researchers interested in this research field
  • Clinical trials
  • Forming partnerships with other organizations and pharmaceutical companies to further the understanding of this disease and conduct independent research.
 

Research Grants

To further encourage and accelerate the development of a treatment for ARSACS, the Foundation provides grants and opportunities to researchers.The research grant could be as high as $100,000 for a 12 month period and could be renewed for a second year. It should be noted that the grant funding from the Foundation  cannot be used to cover indirect costs . All applications for research grants are evaluated by the Scientific Committee of the Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation.
See Financing Offer and ARSACS Appendix