In a crucial stride towards understanding and combating Motor Neuron Disease (MND), Dr. Jean Giacomotto, a distinguished researcher from Griffith University, has secured a substantial $299,791 Impact Grant from FightMND. The grant will fuel his groundbreaking research, delving into the role of genes associated with MND, a debilitating neurological condition also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
Dr. Giacomotto’s focus involves leveraging the zebrafish, a small but powerful freshwater species renowned for its genetic modeling capabilities and versatility in drug discovery. The research aims to intricately manipulate zebrafish genetics to unravel the specific pathogenic contributions of MND risk-genes. Additionally, the team intends to develop optimized zebrafish models for MND, enhancing the potential for drug discovery and pre-clinical studies.
This initiative, made possible by FightMND and its donors, holds significant promise in advancing our understanding of MND and establishing innovative research models. Dr. Giacomotto expressed gratitude for the support, noting that it elevates their work to a new stage and contributes to the global mission of creating a world without MND.
Founded in 2014, FightMND is dedicated to finding effective treatments and a cure for MND. With two Australians diagnosed with MND every day, the urgency of research in this field cannot be overstated. MND comprises a group of diseases affecting nerve cells controlling essential functions like movement, speech, swallowing, and breathing, with no known cure or truly effective treatment.
Dr. Giacomotto’s research, propelled by FightMND’s support, aims to establish two innovative genetic systems. Firstly, these systems will facilitate the study and confirmation of the pathogenicity of different MND-genes. Secondly, they hold the potential to generate stable MND zebrafish models with early phenotypes, crucial for drug screening and discovery.
This research, combined with the expertise of Distinguished Professor Vicky Avery in drug discovery, marks a significant stride towards understanding MND and developing powerful tools for therapeutic interventions. The project stands as a beacon of hope in the quest for innovative solutions for MND patients worldwide.