Project Summary:
To determine the pathophysiological processes underlying neurodegeneration in familial motor neuron disease and thereby determine the site of origin and subsequent patterns of neuronal death in familial motor neuron disease. Advancing earlier studies that have explored the basis for neurological symptoms in sporadic motor neuron disease. This may result in the development of a sensitive diagnostic test for upper motor neuron involvement in motor neuron disease, thereby resulting in early diagnosis.
Providing new knowledge about the pathogenesis of motor neuron disease, potentially impacting on the future management of motor neuron disease patients. This may lead to the development of a new monitoring tool to assess the efficacy of future therapies in motor neuron disease patients.
The Brain Foundation is the largest, independent funder of brain and spinal injury research in Australia. We believe research is the pathway to recovery.