University of Michigan Researcher Awarded $50,000 Community Grant to Advance Early Ovarian Cancer Detection ANN ARBOR, MI


YAN
PR 

A University of Michigan researcher has received a $50,000 community-funded grant to advance efforts in early ovarian cancer detection, a critical step in fighting one of the most serious gynecologic cancers. The award, granted to Principal Investigator Abdulsalam Soofi, PhD, comes from the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MIOCA) through the Geri Fournier Ovarian Cancer Research Grant. The One-year project started in January 2026 and focuses on identifying early biological warning signs of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is often called a “silent disease” because its early symptoms can be subtle, vague, or mistaken for other conditions. As a result, many women are diagnosed only after the disease has progressed, making treatment more difficult. Improving early detection remains one of the greatest challenges in ovarian cancer research. 

Dr. Soofi’s study investigates how changes in two proteins, known as Pax2 and Pax8, may cause stress within cells and trigger early transformation events that precede cancer development. By identifying these early cellular signals, the research aims to help lay the foundation for more precise screening tools and earlier diagnosis. But beyond the science, the grant represents something deeply personal for many Michigan families. The Geri Fournier Ovarian Cancer Research Grant is made possible through the generosity of supporters throughout the community. Each contribution reflects a shared commitment to advancing research and bringing hope to those affected by ovarian cancer. 

Under the terms of the award, the full $50,000 must be used exclusively for the research project. The funds are dedicated solely to supporting laboratory work, materials, and scientific investigation, ensuring that every donated dollar directly advances research. For donors, this provides reassurance that their contributions are advancing research in a direct and meaningful way. “This grant is a powerful example of how community support fuels scientific discovery,” Dr. Soofi said. “When families choose to invest in research, they are helping build a future where ovarian cancer can be detected earlier and treated more effectively.” 

The Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance, based in Ann Arbor, has long championed awareness, education, and research funding throughout the state. The organization provides a range of programs that support individuals and loved ones affected by ovarian cancer. These initiatives include their Survivor Support Tote Program offering care packages for newly diagnosed patients or those experiencing a recurrence, educational webinars and events, facilitated support groups, and awareness efforts such as Tie Michigan Teal. MIOCA also offers financial assistance and connects patients and caregivers with trusted resources throughout the state. 

Community members can get involved with MIOCA’s initiatives throughout the year, including their upcoming Mother’s Day 5K & Fun Run on May 10th in Ypsilanti, Michigan, which brings participants together in a joyful and welcoming environment to honor survivors, remember loved ones, and show support for those affected by ovarian cancer. By supporting locally led scientific studies, the organization strengthens Michigan’s role in advancing solutions that may ultimately have national and global impact. As part of the grant agreement, Dr. Soofi will provide updates to MIOCA supporters in clear, accessible language. This commitment to transparency ensures that community members can see how their support is making a difference. 

While scientific breakthroughs take time, community-backed research plays a vital role in moving the field forward. Each experiment, each data point, and each discovery builds on the shared belief that earlier detection can save lives. As the One-year project begins, the partnership between researchers and the community stands as a reminder that progress against ovarian cancer is not driven by science alone, but by the collective determination of families, advocates, and donors across Michigan. This work will be continued with funding support from other sources, including the National Institute of Health (NIH) and future NIH RO1 grant ($3,757,654) currently under review. For more information about ovarian cancer resources or ways to get involved, visit www.mioca.org or contact the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance in Ann Arbor by emailing info@mioca.org or calling 734-800-6144.