02 December 2022
Over the past decade MSWA has contributed over $34 million to fund research into finding the cause, better treatments and a cure for MS and other neurological conditions.
We are excited and proud to announce that in the 2022/23 financial year, we are committing a further $5 million to neurological research.
We believe that local, national, and international research provides hope for people living with a neurological condition and will improve the lives of our Clients and all people supported by MSWA.
In recent years, thanks to our investment into research, our understanding of MS and neurological conditions has improved. This investment would not be possible without the support of West Australians, or our fundraising initiatives and lotteries.
“I am delighted to continue our funding of neurological research including WA research projects which we believe will lead to finding the cause, better treatments, and hopefully one day a cure for many neurological conditions.” MSWA CEO Melanie Kiely said of the announcement.
“We truly can’t thank our supporters enough for continuing to trust us to support people with neurological conditions, and fund vital research not only here in Western Australia but nationally and internationally too.”
Some of the exciting local research projects funded by MSWA are:
Neuro Plasticity Research, Associate Professor Jennifer Rodger
Ass. Professor Rodger and her group’s current research explores the physiological, cellular and molecular basis of brain plasticity in order to develop therapeutic strategies to improve brain plasticity in patients, with the aim of developing effective treatments for patients with neurotrauma and neurological disease, accounting for over a quarter of all chronic disability in Australia.
Ageing and Neurodegenerative Diseases, Professor John Mamo
Exploring the effect of ageing on the development of neurodegenerative diseases, linking lifestyle factors that potentially increase the risk of Parkinson’s, motor neuron disease, Huntington’s disease and MS. Research could potentially lead to the identification of preventative interventions and treatments.
Systematic Profiling In Neurological conditions (SPIN), Professor Moira Sim
SPIN (Systematic Profiling In Neurological conditions) and Mind Pod (exoskeleton for rehab) multidisciplinary, wholistic approach to managing MS and evaluating the impact and a patient profiling system.
National Research
Funding is also provided for research which aims to improve the quality of life for people already living with MS by assisting with symptom management and assessment.
International Research
The Progressive MS Alliance, Multiple Sclerosis International Federation
The International Progressive MS Alliance is an unprecedented global collaboration of MS organisations, researchers, clinicians, pharmaceutical companies, and people with progressive MS, transforming the landscape of MS.
For more information about MSWA’s commitment to research and the research projects we support, click here.