Our initial focus:
Motor Neurone Disease
MiND is investigating molecular biomarkers associated with motor neurone disease (MND), with an initial focus on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most common form of MND.
Our goal is to build a clearer molecular picture of disease and investigate whether these insights can support future diagnostic and monitoring tools.
Why better measurement matters
MND/ALS can be difficult to diagnose and monitor. Assessment brings together clinical history, neurological examination and investigations, including tests to assess other possible causes of symptoms.
Molecular biomarkers could provide additional information alongside clinical assessment. Developing such tools requires evidence that they are reliable and useful for a defined purpose.
What we are investigating
Our research examines disease-associated changes in gene regulation and activity. Initial studies in MND/ALS models have identified molecular signatures that are informing further validation in tissue and patient samples.
We are also investigating approaches to measuring selected signals in blood, an important step towards a practical testing format.
Why blood is part of the goal
A blood-based assay could offer a practical way to collect samples and repeat measurements over time. The key questions are whether candidate signals can be measured reliably in blood and whether those measurements provide clinically useful information.
Focused today, with potential to extend
MND/ALS is MiND’s first application. As evidence develops, the platform may inform research in other neurodegenerative diseases. Each would require a dedicated programme of discovery and validation.
MiND does not currently offer a clinical diagnostic test or patient testing service.
