As we step into a new year, we are reflecting on key moments from the past year that strengthened our community, advanced research, and expanded the reach of PSC Partners.
A Landmark Step in Research
This year marked a major milestone for PSC Partners with the launch of our first patient-funded International Collaborative Research Network (ICRN) project. The study, Prospective Validation of BIOMAP-PSC, is a groundbreaking effort to validate blood biomarkers that may allow for earlier detection of bile duct cancer in people living with PSC. This project represents the growing strength of patient-driven research and reflects the deep commitment of our community to accelerating progress in PSC. LEARN MORE
Move for PSC: A New Community Fundraiser
In June we launched Move for PSC (formerly WALK83.01). In total, 73 fundraisers and 19 teams raised $170,000, and 100 percent of it went directly to PSC research. Thank you to everyone who moved with purpose to make this year such a success.
A Powerful Start to the 2025 Annual Conference
More than 300 attendees joined us for this year’s PSC Partners Annual Conference, which opened with the incredible story of Brooke Babcock and Michelle Murphy. After meeting at the 2024 conference, Brooke became Michelle’s living liver donor at Mayo Clinic. Just 17 days after surgery, Brooke stood on stage to share their journey while Michelle joined via FaceTime. Their story was a moving reminder of the life-changing relationships formed within our community. READ MORE
Expanding Our Voice Through Podcasts
We launched PSC Breaking News Podcast, kicking off with an episode hosted by Stephen Rossi and Brian Thorsen, who shared three major research updates from the May 2025 EASL Congress in Amsterdam. The episode highlights promising Phase II and III trials for potential PSC treatments, along with a groundbreaking study on blood tests for earlier detection of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA).
PSC Partners was also featured on the EASL Studio Podcast, where Dr. Cynthia Levy, Dr. Michael Trauner, and Dr. Rossi reviewed emerging clinical trial data and discussed whether we are entering a new era of effective treatments for PSC.
A Record Year for Research Interest
Interest in PSC research reached new heights through the 2026 PSC Partners Research Seed Grants cycle. We received 48 Letters of Intent requesting funding of up to $100,000 USD for Young Investigator grants and $75,000 USD for Standard Seed Grants. Interest from emerging researchers was especially strong, with 35 Letters of Intent from young investigators and 13 from standard investigators. In addition, 39 proposals were eligible for Canada-based funding.
Connection Through Zoom Rooms
This year, we hosted 23 Zoom Rooms with 243 participants providing ongoing opportunities for connection, education, and support. View Upcoming Zooms
Introducing The Beacon
In 2025, we launched The Beacon, a quarterly research newsletter designed to inform and connect the entire PSC community, including patients, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, donors, and advocates. Each issue highlights the impact of patient-driven research, shared experiences, and donor support in the ongoing fight against PSC. Read the latest issue and subscribe here.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With major initiatives underway, we are entering 2026 ready to deepen our impact and accelerate progress for the PSC community. Stay tuned for the important work ahead. Big things are coming.
