Are Scientists close to finding a cure for MND?

There is no known cure and more than half die within two years of diagnosis. The research found that the damage to nerve cells caused by MND could be repaired by improving the energy levels in mitochondria – the power supply to the motor neurons.

Has there been a breakthrough with MND?

A new drug developed by scientists at the Florey Institute of Neuroscience, and the School of Chemistry and Bio21 Institute at the University of Melbourne has dramatically improved clinical and cognitive symptoms of motor neurone disease, also called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

What research is being done on MND?

A phase 2 study assessing the safety, tolerability and efficacy of the drug in those with MND is currently being conducted. This open label trial in the U.S. is recruiting 18 participants with C9orf72 associated MND who will receive treatment with metformin for 24 weeks.

What is the latest treatment for motor neurone disease?

Tecfidera is an approved treatment for multiple sclerosis that may also slow down MND by increasing the anti-inflammatory response in the body. Professor Steve Vucic and Professor Matthew Kiernan led a Phase 2 clinical trial – the TEALS (Tecfidera in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) study.

Does MND affect eyesight?

Motor neurone disease (MND) is still incurable, but not untreatable – many symptoms can be managed. People with MND live better and longer under the care of a multidisciplinary team. The senses of eyesight, hearing, taste, smell and touch are not affected.

Does MND come go?

MND does shorten life expectancy, and is a fatal illness. However, there is huge variation in how quickly it progresses, and it is different in each person who has it. Muscles weakened by ALS-MND do not recover. However, weeks or months may go by where the disease does not seem to progress.