It seems like yesterday when I met with the Centre for Drug Research Development (CDRD) to discuss a potential partnership that would bolster efforts in translational research for MS. Today, that partnership has taken an important step as the first project focused on progressive MS is funded.
This work, funded by the MS Society and led by Canadian researcher Dr. Craig Moore from Memorial University in Newfoundland, was selected from over thirty applications that were submitted to a request for proposals launched earlier this year.
Dr. Moore will look closely at inflammation in the brain and how it leads to tissue injury. Using this information, he will identify therapeutic targets that can promote repair, which is essential to halting MS disease progression and restoring normal functioning in people who are affected by both relapsing and progressive forms of MS. What is most unique about this project is it will be undertaken at CDRD’s fully-integrated drug development centre in Vancouver, with input from scientific and business experts who have the capacity to take Dr. Moore’s discoveries through the steps needed to develop treatments for MS. This is especially critical for people with progressive MS, who experience significant challenges due to their advanced disability.
Funding this work marks an important step in the continuing collaboration between the MS Society and CDRD, which was formed with the objective of accelerating the development of safe and effective treatments for people living with MS. By working closely with CDRD, and funding Dr. Craig Moore’s innovative research, the MS Society affirms it’s commitment to support research that will improve quality of life for people with MS, and uncover clearer answers about why progression occurs and how it can be controlled.