Latest news with #SoniaSharma
Medscape
25-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
NIH Launches Agency-Wide Plan for Autoimmune Research
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has unveiled its first agency-wide strategic plan to address autoimmune diseases, supporting research on preclinical autoimmunity, early diagnosis, and innovative therapies. An estimated 23.5-50 million Americans are living with one or more autoimmune diseases. The initiative follows a congressional directive in 2023 that led to the creation of the NIH Office of Autoimmune Disease Research (OADR) within the Office of Research on Women's Health. The office convened a committee with representatives from multiple NIH institutes and centers to develop the plan, gathering input from researchers, clinicians, patient advocates, and people living with autoimmune diseases to define research priorities. The initiative 'is long overdue,' said Sonia Sharma, PhD, of the Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation at La Jolla Institute for Immunology in La Jolla, California, in an interview with Medscape Medical News . 'Individually, some folks may consider these rare diseases; but as a collective, they are not rare and they are increasing.' While NIH investment in autoimmune disease research has increased from $822 million in 2014 to more than $1 billion in 2024, according to the NIH Research Portfolio Online Reporting Tools (RePORT), 'current funding levels are not proportional to the rising prevalence of autoimmune diseases, highlighting a significant gap,' said OADR Director Victoria Shanmugam, MBBS, in a video introducing the initiative. The launch of this plan comes at a precarious time for medical research funding. Over 2480 NIH grants, totaling $8.7 billion, have been canceled as of mid-June, according to Scientific American . The proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget also includes a $18 billion cut to the NIH, a nearly 40% reduction from the current NIH budget. It's unclear if these cuts could affect this initiative, and the announcement included no funding details. The 5-year plan, announced on July 21, 2025, will run from 2026 through 2030 and has the following priorities: Accelerate scientific discovery in diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and cure of autoimmune diseases. Promote research to enhance health for people living with and at risk for autoimmune diseases. Support research to understand the full complexity of autoimmune diseases. Build and maintain capacity for autoimmune disease research. Build and strengthen partnerships and interdisciplinary collaboration across the autoimmune disease community. One research area emphasized in the plan is preclinical immunity, referred to as the prodrome, where autoantibodies and other markers of autoimmunity are present, yet symptoms have not yet developed. 'That's the black box of autoimmunity,' Sharma said. Studying the preclinical phases of disease could lead to earlier diagnosis, treatment, and potentially prevention, she added. The plan also included five 'crosscutting themes': develop infrastructure, support multimodal data-driven approaches, promote engagement of all patient populations, support community partnerships, and harness technologies to advance autoimmune disease research. Currently, the strategic plan lacks detailed timelines, but experts anticipate greater specificity as it advances. 'We would like to see more clarity around a timeline with specific deliverables, but that can't occur until they understand what and where the resources will be located,' said Molly Murray, president and CEO of the Autoimmune Association, in a statement to Medscape Medical News . She emphasized the need for 'specific, measurable milestones,' particularly for early disease detection and testing. 'We also want to see greater detail on how NIH will partner with existing centers of excellence in autoimmune research, and how patient voices will be consistently integrated into research design and priority-setting,' she continued. 'Ultimately, we're looking for this plan to become more than a document, but rather a catalyst for sustained coordination, investment, and accountability across the entire NIH enterprise.'
Associated Press
29-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Dr. Sonia Sharma Academy Announces Groundbreaking Hindi Language Programs with State-of-the-Art Curriculum
Dr. Sonia Sharma Academy unveils innovative Hindi language programs with an emphasis on cultural understanding, professional growth, and personal enrichment. New York, USA, March 29, 2025 -- Empowering the Global Hindi Learner Dr. Sonia Sharma, a distinguished, award-winning educator and founder of Dr. Sonia Sharma Academy, is pioneering a transformative approach to learning Hindi. With a teaching career spanning over two decades, Dr. Sharma has developed an advanced, student-centered curriculum for learners of all backgrounds. The academy's courses aim to bridge cultural divides while providing professional and personal development through comprehensive language instruction. Known for her dynamic teaching methods, Dr. Sharma has influenced students at some of the top universities in the United States, including Stanford, Columbia, UC Berkeley, and the Defense Language Institute. Her courses cater to a range of learners, from American professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of India for work, family, or travel, to Indian-Americans looking to reconnect with their cultural roots. 'At Dr. Sonia Sharma Academy, we take great pride in offering a structured curriculum that focuses not only on language skills but also on cultural understanding. It is our mission to create a cross-cultural space where students can thrive in their Hindi learning journey while gaining an appreciation for the rich heritage it represents,' said Dr. Sonia Sharma. A Curriculum for the Future The academy's Hindi language programs stand out for their integration of modern technology and an approach rooted in linguistic research. Dr. Sharma has been a trailblazer in incorporating Hindi into technological platforms, including Siri on iPhones, as well as designing state-level Hindi certification exams in the US to increase access to the language. Dr. Sharma's teaching style ensures a comprehensive approach, providing learners with the opportunity to develop all language skills — including reading, writing, speaking, and listening. This holistic methodology is designed to create rapid fluency, equipping students with the tools necessary for both personal and professional success. Celebrating Awards and Recognition Dr. Sharma's exceptional work has earned her numerous accolades over the years. In 2023, she received the International World Talent Award for connecting Indians in the USA with Hindi language, literature, and culture. Other honors include the Service Award from Stanford University in 2022 and the Women Empowerment Award from India in 2024. 'I am deeply honored to receive these awards, and I believe they reflect the collective effort of our students, faculty, and supporters. The impact of education extends far beyond the classroom, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to that through the academy,' shared Dr. Sharma. Her scholarly work, especially her dissertation on adult Hindi learners in the US, continues to shape the future of Hindi education, influencing both academic circles and practical teaching methodologies. Expanding Access to Hindi Learning Through her academy, Dr. Sharma has made significant strides in enhancing Hindi language learning accessibility. As the global demand for Hindi increases, the academy is committed to providing learners with easy, effective, and fast methods of online learning. 'The ability to speak Hindi opens doors to understanding one of the most vibrant and diverse cultures in the world. India is the largest democracy in the world & home to the most prolific film industry. I am passionate about making the language accessible to all, and our programs reflect that vision,' Dr. Sharma added. About Dr. Sonia Sharma Academy Dr. Sonia Sharma Academy, founded by Dr. Sonia Sharma, offers a comprehensive range of Hindi language programs designed for learners at all stages. With over 20 years of experience teaching Hindi at renowned universities, Dr. Sharma's academy is a recognized leader in the field of Hindi language education. The academy's approach combines rigorous academic standards with practical, real-world application. Dr. Sharma's work continues to impact the future of Hindi learners worldwide, promoting a deeper understanding of India and its culture. Media Contact Dr. Sonia Sharma Academy Email: [email protected] Website: Instagram: @dr._sonia_sharma_academy Contact Info: Name: Dr. Sonia Sharma Email: Send Email Organization: Dr. Sonia Sharma Academy Release ID: 89153093
