Recent research claims that genetic predisposition accounts for 52% of cases of Motor Neurone Disease (MND), but what other factors increase the risk of developing it, and how can this research be used to enhance the lives of those living with this condition?

Motor Neurone Disease is an umbrella term that refers to a classification of illnesses affected by nerve cell degeneration. As neurons in the body stop functioning as normal, affected motor skills can impact the person’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe. Although there is no cure for MND, modern medicine is helping to slow disease progression to extend the lifespans of those with MND.

In February 2020, ICON granted Professor Orla Hardiman with the ICON – McKeon Research Fellowship to develop significant research into the area of Motor Neurone Disease. Uncovering latent research will allow medics to gain further understanding of the disease to enable those living with the condition to gain a better quality of life.

PANEL

Orla Hardiman, Professor of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin

Russell Mc Laughlin, Ussher Assistant Professor of Genetics, Trinity College

Roy Taylor, IMNDA ambassador, living with ALS, singer, bass player, entertainer

Nuala Murphy, President of Clinical Research Services Division, ICON

MODERATOR

Ciara Kelly, Doctor and Broadcaster

This event is part of the Living With… series, held in partnership with ICON, a global provider of drug development solutions and services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and government and public health organisations. The company specialises in the strategic development, management and analysis of programs that support clinical development - from compound selection to Phase I-IV clinical studies.