Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Centre

Overview

Motor neurons are cells which initiate and control voluntary movement. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the commonest form of motor neuron disease (MND) and the third commonest form of neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, is currently incurable. We now know that it arises for a complex set of reasons, including harmful genetic variants and environmental factors.

Research

The MND research programme in Oxford uniquely spans molecular to network function of the motor system and its degeneration, led by three neurologists. Cellular work led by Professor Talbot has created novel models of ALS, investigating the effect of human genetic mutations in mice and in motor neurons derived from stem cells grown from the skin of patients with ALS. Professor Turner’s human biomarker development programme involves deep clinical phenotyping with biofluid analysis and advanced brain imaging, aimed at developing improved trial outcome measures and stratification. Associate Professor Thompson has expertise in advanced proteomics and epidemiology focused on understanding risk factors and modifiers in ALS.

Having established promising approaches for therapy development and testing in those with established disease, we are leading in the application of these techniques to people who carry genetic risk factors for ALS, but who may be some years from developing disease symptoms. This includes the ACORN and FaTHoM initiatives. Our ultimate aim is to identify the earliest changes which occur in the disease and apply protective therapies before the onset of significant disability in those at risk and those already living with ALS.

Anyone who either knows someone or works with patients with MND can understand the urgency of finding out more about the disease. The study is very organised and well explained with friendly, professional staff who were very thorough and patient. It was a pleasure to take part.An Oxford research volunteer

The foundation of our approach is that excellence in research comes from excellence in care. We are one of the major centres for international as well as UK ALS therapeutic trials. All patients attending the Oxford Motor Neuron Disease Clinic are also given the opportunity to engage in other vital research, through participation in genetic and biomarker studies.