MSWA is proud to be Western Australia’s leading contributor to neurological research. This year, we are delighted to announce a new record contribution of $4m.
CEO Marcus Stafford AM said the funding demonstrates our commitment to research, and how much we value research in this field.
“Each year, thanks to the support of our fundraising community, MSWA is able to contribute more money towards neurological research,” said Mr Stafford.
“While some projects are still in preliminary stages, foundational understandings have been established, which means researchers can begin to further investigate theories to create real outcomes for people living with a neurological condition.
“I am excited and confident about the future of neurological research which we believe will lead us to finding the cause, better treatments, and hopefully one day a cure for many neurological conditions.”
MSWA is currently supporting research projects being conducted by the Perron Institute, Edith Cowan University, Curtin University, Telethon Kids Institute, MS Research Australia (MSRA) and the International Progressive MS Alliance.
Some of the key projects we are proud to be funding include:
- Neuroplasticity research led by the Perron Institute’s Associate Professor Jenny Rodger - the ability of the brain to change and rewire, or modify damaged neural connections using non-invasive brain stimulation.
- Dietary implications in MS research led by Curtin University’s Senior Research Fellow Dr Lucinda Black - examining various dietary factors, patterns of food and nutrients intake, and their link to the risk of MS and disease progression. To date, research has been undertaken in red meat, Omega 3s, Vitamin D and ultra-processed foods.
- Translating research into practice led by Edith Cowan University’s Executive Dean, Medical and Health Sciences, Professor Moira Sim – looking into a number of therapeutic interventions and who they will most benefit – specifically for people living with a neurological condition. Research is currently being conducted to see the effect of light therapy glasses on fatigue and daytime sleepiness, as well as the use of a virtual reality video game, with an exoskeleton apparatus, to improve upper limb mobility.
- UVB treatment research led by the Telethon Kid’s Institute’s Professor Prue Hart looks into the effects of UVB treatment in delaying the development of MS in high-risk individuals.
MSWA also allocates significate funding to MSRA which is then allocated to various Australian MS research projects. A nominated portion of this is also used to support the International Progressive MS Alliance – a global collaboration working towards finding a greater understanding and better treatments for Progressive MS.
Over the past 10 years, MSWA has funded over $20 million towards local, national and international research projects.
For more information about MSWA’s commitment to research, and research projects we are currently funding, visit our Commitment to Research page.