Gorlin Syndrome Alliance Announces 2026 Research Grant Recipient

The Gorlin Syndrome Alliance is pleased to announce the recipient of the 2026 Gorlin Syndrome Alliance Research Grant.

As the only organization dedicated exclusively to funding Gorlin syndrome research, the GSA supports projects that seek to advance our understanding of the disease and improve care for individuals and families affected by Gorlin syndrome.

This year's grant has been awarded to Dr. Kavita Sarin, Director of Stanford's Skin Cancer Genetics Program; Sharon Loa, B.S., M.D./Ph.D. Candidate at Stanford University School of Medicine; and Dr. Guosong Hong, Assistant Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Stanford University, with Dr. Sumaira Aasi, Director of Dermatologic Surgery at Stanford University, serving as Co-Investigator.

The Stanford team will receive funding for their project:

KLEAR-PDT: Photodynamic Therapy for Basal Cell Carcinomas in Gorlin Syndrome Using Skin-Clearing Agents

The project will explore new ways to improve photodynamic therapy (PDT) for basal cell carcinomas in individuals living with Gorlin syndrome. Researchers will investigate whether skin-clearing agents can enhance treatment effectiveness and potentially improve patient outcomes.

Why This Research Matters

For many individuals with Gorlin syndrome, managing basal cell carcinomas is an ongoing part of life. While existing treatment options can be effective, there remains a need for approaches that can improve outcomes and reduce treatment burden over time.

The KLEAR-PDT project will explore whether skin-clearing agents can enhance the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy for basal cell carcinomas in people with Gorlin syndrome. By investigating a novel application of an existing treatment approach, this research may provide insights that help inform future care strategies for the Gorlin syndrome community.

As with all rare disease research, progress depends on the willingness of researchers to study important questions despite limited patient populations and resources. The Gorlin Syndrome Alliance is pleased to support work that seeks to expand our understanding of the disease and explore new possibilities for treatment.

Gratitude to Our Scientific and Community Reviewers

The GSA extends its sincere thanks to the members of the Scientific Advisory Board, scientific grant reviewers, and Community Reviewers who participated in this year's grant review process.

Our scientific reviewers contribute valuable expertise across a range of disciplines, while our Community Reviewers bring the perspectives of individuals and families living with Gorlin syndrome. Together, they help ensure that funded projects are both scientifically sound and relevant to the needs of the community.

Their thoughtful evaluations and commitment to the review process play an important role in helping the GSA identify and support promising research.

Congratulations to the Stanford Team

Congratulations to Dr. Sarin, Sharon Loa, Dr. Hong, Dr. Aasi, and the entire Stanford team on receiving the 2026 Gorlin Syndrome Alliance Research Grant.

We look forward to following the progress of this project and sharing updates with the Gorlin syndrome community as the research moves forward.