Neurology
Motor Neurone Disease: Investigating if specific toxins contribute towards to the onset of MND
Research Objectives
Status
Completed
Recruitment
Closed
Study location
Wesley Research Institute, The University of Queensland
Study type
Investigator Initiated
Lead investigator
- Prof Pamela McCombe (UQ)
Experienced investigator
- Dr Aven Lee (UQ)
About this research project
Motor neurone disease (MND) is a severe disease for which there is no successful therapy. Currently there is no cure for MND. The best approach in clinical practice is primary prevention through the modification of risk factors.
In a novel study previously funded by Wesley Research Institute, we have demonstrated that MND patients have increased levels of homocysteine sulfinic acid, an excitotoxin that can be produced by the gut microbiota.
In this follow up study, we will investigate if the increases in these excitotoxins change during disease progression and correlate with survival. These toxins could contribute to the onset of MND. It’s possible that eliminating these gut toxins could lead to better patient outcomes.
Latest News
Queensland claims world-first Chair in Spatial Medicine
In a landmark move in diagnosing and treating chronic disease, Queensland has unveiled the world’s first Chair in Spatial Medicine – a prestigious, philanthropically-funded research leadership position appointed to Associate Professor Arutha Kulasinghe.
Gluten Threshold Study Findings
WRI researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery showing that even extremely small amounts of gluten can trigger measurable immune activation in people with treated coeliac disease – findings that could help refine international food labelling standards.
How Kira is Helping to Shape Global Coeliac Research
When Kira was invited to participate in the Gluten Threshold Study, led by Coeliac Disease & Immune Health Research Program Clinical Director Dr James Daveson, Kira didn’t hesitate. The study’s findings are expected to influence international food labelling standards – an outcome that gives Kira a genuine sense of purpose.