Funding
We fund targeted KCNT1 research designed to answer defined scientific questions, generate shared research assets, and de-risk translational investment in KCNT1-related disorders. Our priorities emphasize standardized approaches, reproducibility, and clear relevance to therapeutic development and clinical trials.
How We Consider New Funding Opportunities
We accept Letters of Intent (LOIs) on a rolling basis and actively evaluate potential partners, co-funding opportunities, and cross-disease collaborations aligned with KCNT1 biology. Selected applicants may be invited to submit a full proposal or explore co-funded or collaborative opportunities.
Evaluation Criteria
Projects are assessed for:
- Scientific rigor and clarity of the research question
- Alignment with KCNT1 disease biology and unmet needs
- Ability to generate reusable data, models, or assets
- Potential to reduce scientific, regulatory, or commercial risk
- Translational relevance and partnership potential
Fit Signal: We prioritize projects that reduce uncertainty and accelerate readiness for downstream therapeutic development
Examples of What We Have Funded
Human iPSC-derived neuronal models
Validated cell lines and shared biological assets
Proof-of-concept gene-editing and gene-modulating approaches
Comparative and mechanistic studies to standardize experimental readouts
Early translational work supporting trial readiness
Examples shown are illustrative and not exhaustive.
How We Work
Open Science & Data Stewardship
We support responsible data sharing that strengthens the KCNT1 research ecosystem. Expectations are scaled to project type and stage, balancing transparency with institutional, sponsor, and regulatory requirements.
Biobank & Shared Research Assets
We invest in and steward shared KCNT1 resources, including biospecimens, cell lines, and associated data housed within the Foundation’s biobank and partner repositories. Projects that contribute to or leverage these assets are strongly encouraged.
Academic & Industry Collaboration
We work with academic, nonprofit, and biotechnology partners. Agreements balance open-science principles with appropriate IP protection, confidentiality, and staged data sharing when translational or commercial pathways are involved.
Path to Translation
Priority is given to work that advances therapeutic development, regulatory engagement, or clinical trials by de-risking key scientific questions or generating proof-of-concept evidence.
How to Apply
Letters of Intent (LOIs)
We request a brief LOI prior to any full proposal.
Format
- 1–2 pages
- PDF preferred
Submission
Email to manager@kcnt1epilepsy.org
LOI Focus Areas
Mechanistic Biology & Disease Understanding
- The core scientific question and rationale
- How the work advances understanding of KCNT1 biology (including modifiers, non-conducting functions, or system-level effects)
Models, Assays & Research Assets
- Experimental systems or models used or developed
- Plans to standardize, validate, or generate reusable assets (e.g., cell lines, assays, datasets)
Translational Readiness & De-risking
- How outcomes reduce uncertainty for therapeutic development
- Relevance to target selection, modality choice, or go/no-go decisions
Integration with Existing KCNT1 Resources
- Planned use of Foundation-supported resources (e.g., biobank, registry, validated models), if applicable
- Rationale if new resources are proposed
Collaboration & Data Stewardship
- Key collaborators and roles
- High-level plans for data sharing, asset contribution, or downstream access (scaled to project stage)
Scope & Feasibility
- High-level timeline and milestones
- Estimated budget range and funding needs
Calls for Targeted RFAs
From time to time, the Foundation may issue targeted Requests for Proposals (RFAs) aligned with specific scientific or translational priorities.
Researchers are encouraged to:
- Check this page periodically
- Subscribe to Foundation updates
- Engage early via an LOI when appropriate
For Donors
Your Impact on KCNT1 Research
Your support enables early, targeted investments that many traditional funders cannot make—supporting the data, models, and proof-of-concept work required to move KCNT1 therapies forward.
By intentionally funding research that reduces risk at key inflection points, the Foundation helps unlock follow-on investment and accelerate progress toward clinical trials—maximizing the impact of every gift.
