Pre-clinical
Developing a novel cell therapy approach to restore lost muscle function in MND
Dr Barney Bryson and Prof Linda Greensmith, University College London
Pre-clinical
Dr Barney Bryson and Prof Linda Greensmith, University College London
£165,971.33* | August 2022 - January 2025
Summary: In people living with MND, motor neurons no longer send messages to the muscles, causing weakness and muscle wasting. An innovative technology has been developed to create new connections between motor neurons and muscles using genetically engineered motor neurons, obtained from stem cells, that respond to pulses of light. It has been shown to enable muscle contraction using light signals.
Dr Bryson and Professor Greensmith are adapting this technology so that it can be used in animal models of disease to test the ability of human-compatible, replacement motor neurons to be activated by light, restore muscle contraction and prevent muscle wasting. If successful, this technology has the potential to restore function of paralysed muscles in people living with MND.
Why this research is important: This project could potentially lead to the development of a completely novel approach to treating MND. Having more options for therapeutics in MND means that people living with the disease are more likely to be offered at least one that has a real impact on their disease.
Results of the proof-of-principle study that led to this research were published in eLife in 2023.
To learn more about stem cells and MND research, check out our infographic.
*This project is part of the Motor Neuron Disease Translational Research Fund and is co-funded by LifeArc and MND Association.
JustGiving Charity of the Year Award
People’s Choice Award – Scottish Charity Awards 2020
Best use of Event or Community Fundraising Initiative 2023
Shortlisted – Active and Wellbeing Award – Sports Industry Awards 2022
Thanks to Colin Mearns, Ian Rutherford, Love Wedding Photos And Film and Craig Watson for contributions.
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