Exploring differences in how MND presents in different people through the lens of each individual's genetic makeup.
Principal Investigator: Dr Ross Byrne
Lead Institution: Trinity College Dublin
MND Association Funding: £414,070
Funding dates: September 2026 - August 2030
About the project
MND is very variable in how it presents across different people, with known differences in where and when the disease starts, and how quickly it progresses. Each person’s personal genetic background likely plays a role in these differences, influencing their disease course and outcomes. Dr Ross Byrne’s research is exploring these differences in MND through the lens of each person’s genetic makeup. He is analysing large amounts of data collected from people with MND to find genes that are linked to how fast the disease progresses. This fellowship will also support his ongoing investigations into the genetic changes that might underpin cognitive and behavioural changes in MND, as well as sex-differences in genetic risk for the disease.
What could this mean for MND research?
This work aims to help us to further understand MND at the intersection of genetic and clinical research. A complete understanding of which genetic factors drive differences in how MND presents in different people could reveal important information into disease mechanisms and provide opportunities for better treatments.
Project code: 2536-799