APPG on MND explores UK MND Research Institute’s groundbreaking work

APPG visit to lab - and group photo

Last week, members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Motor Neuron Disease (MND) visited King’s College London to witness firsthand the pioneering research undertaken as part of the UK MND Research Institute’s national collaboration to tackle the disease.

Led by Ian Byrne MP, Chair of the APPG on MND, the delegation toured the Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, one of the UK’s leading MND research hubs.

The visit, organised by the MND Association in partnership with King’s College London, highlighted the latest scientific advancements and the critical need for sustained government support to accelerate progress.

Advancing MND Research Through Collaboration

The visit began with a presentation by Professor Ammar Al-Chalabi, co-director of the UK Motor Neuron Disease Research Institute (UK MND RI), Director of King’s MND Care and Research Centre and NIHR Maudsley BRC's Theme Lead for MND.

He outlined the Institute’s mission, to bring together world-leading centres to drive discoveries, enhance clinical trials, and ultimately develop effective treatments.

King’s is one of six key sites collaborating to revolutionise our understanding of MND and speed up the search for therapies. During a roundtable discussion, MPs engaged with researchers on key challenges, including ensuring the UK maintains its position as a leader in MND research, addressing disparities in clinical trial access, and securing long-term investment in research initiatives.

A Closer Look at MND Research in Action

Following the discussion, MPs toured the cutting-edge laboratory facilities at King’s, meeting UK MND RI researchers working on innovative projects to uncover the causes of MND and develop targeted treatments. From biomarker discovery to advanced stem cell research, the visit demonstrated the impact of investment in scientific progress.

Ian Byrne MP reflected on the visit:

“It has been fascinating. Seeing people from across the world doing so much good in this facility shows just how much we need to continue funding research to cure this awful disease. It’s been enlightening and inspiring for the Parliamentarians on the trip today to see where the money is being spent on key projects. A big thank you to everybody across the country who contributes to this important work.”

MPs Aphra Brandreth and Olly Glover, officers of the APPG, and APPG members Vikki Slade and Sarah Hall joined Mr Byrne for the visit.

Peple during the visit speaking and in the lab

Looking Ahead To Our Next Steps

The visit underscored the importance of sustained investment in MND research and the power of collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and charities.

Professor Ammar Al-Chalabi highlighted the importance of continued investment in MND research:

“The progress we are making in understanding and treating MND is only possible because of sustained investment in research and collaboration between scientists, clinicians, people living with MND, and policymakers. Visits like this are crucial in demonstrating the impact of this work and the urgent need for ongoing support. By bringing together expertise from across the UK, the UK MND Research Institute is driving forward innovative studies that will ultimately improve the lives of people with MND and bring us closer to new and effective treatments.”

The UK MND Research Institute remains committed to accelerating discoveries, improving access to clinical trials, and driving forward the search for a cure.

 

Photo credit: MND Association


Tags: Motor Neuron Disease -

By NIHR Maudsley BRC at 19 Feb 2025, 09:49 AM


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