Research

When the Cystinosis Research Foundation was established, one of our goals was to improve the quality of life for children with cystinosis. Finding more effective treatments for cystinosis was the key to that goal. We have aggressively pursued new and cutting-edge research by pursuing the best and the brightest scientists.  The CRF approach to research is interdisciplinary and multi-faceted.  We prioritize collaborations and cystinosis research studies that result in human clinical trials. We are increasingly focused on the clinical and translational research crucial to making the necessary strides toward a cure for cystinosis.

Cystinosis Research Overview

The Cystinosis Research Foundation’s mission is two-fold and focused: to find better treatments and a cure for cystinosis. Funding quality research studies remains a priority and is an ongoing process.
Learn more about cystinosis research efforts »

Grants Awarded

Since 2003, the Cystinosis Research Foundation has funded more than $10.8 million in cystinosis research, making the CRF the largest provider of grants for cystinosis research in the world. CRF is currently funding 41 research studies including ten research fellows. Our researchers are working in five countries around the world to find better treatments and a cure for cystinosis.

Clinical Studies Volunteers

Over the past few years there have been new cystinosis research developments and significant advancements in the treatment of cystinosis. Dr. Ranjan Dohil’s research study funded by CRF at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) has resulted in the development of a slow-release form of cysteamine.
Participate as a patient volunteer »

Research Updates

Read the latest cystinosis research updates »

Published Studies

Read and print published studies on cystinosis »

International Research Symposium

The second CRF International Cystinosis Research Symposium will be held Thursday, April 8, and Friday, April 9, 2010 at the prestigious Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center of the National Academies of Engineering and Science on the UCI campus. More than 60 researchers from the United States and Europe who have been working to achieve better treatments and a cure for cystinosis will attend.

For Researchers

Learn about grant funding and other research opportunities.


Save the Date for Natalie’s Wish Fundraiser– April 30th at the Balboa Bay Club, Newport Beach, CA
John Ondrasik

Join us Friday, April 30th for our annual Natalie’s Wish fundraising event at the beautiful Balboa Bay Club in Newport Beach, CA. Guests will enjoy a live performance by John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting, and a short film on cystinosis research progress. Then the bidding begins on fabulous items in our live auction, including fantastic travel and entertainment packages, jewelry and wine collections. This event is the highlight of our year, with many of our supporters and cystinosis families joining together for a night of hope and celebration in our quest to cure cystinosis. More information and invitations to come.

Join our mailing list by emailing info@cystinosisresearch.org with your contact information.