18 November 2009
Local scientist wins vital research grant
A professor from the University of Sheffield has been awarded a grant of almost £25,000 by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign to carry out research into incurable neuromuscular conditions.
Professor Steve Winder, from the University of Sheffield´s Department of Biomedical Science, carries out research into treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a devastating and life-limiting muscle-wasting disease which mainly affects boys. Between the ages of eight and 11 boys, with Duchenne become unable to walk and by their late teens or twenties their heart and respiratory muscles become affected. Around 2,400 boys and men in the UK have the condition.
Professor Winder is looking at the dystroglycan protein which, although it is not the primary cause of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, does not function properly in boys with this condition. He hopes to establish whether making small changes to this protein in muscle cells might help to prevent the weakness experienced by people with some muscle diseases.
The £24,265 awarded by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign will fund the first of a four year PhD studentship.
Speaking about the grant, Professor Winder said: "I am delighted to receive this funding from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign. It will be used to continue our work to understand fundamental aspects of the disease process in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This research could potentially provide new routes to therapy."
Dave Allen, from Harley Road in Sheffield, is one of the thousands of males who may one day benefit from this research. The 28-year-old was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy 13 years ago and is following Professor Winder´s work with interest.
Dave said: "It´s good to hear that the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign is continuing its fight to find treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and I hope that one day this research will help people like me."
Commenting on the new research grant, Director of Research at the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, Dr Marita Pohlschmidt, said: "The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign is delighted to continue its policy of supporting world-class research with this grant to fund the vital work being undertaken by Prof. Winder at the University of Sheffield. His team´s work on Duchenne muscular dystrophy represents an important step forward in helping us to further understand these neuromuscular conditions and hopefully move closer to developing treatments." Notes for Editors: The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign is the leading UK charity focusing on muscle disease. It has pioneered the search for treatments and cures for 50 years, and is dedicated to improving the lives of all children and adults affected by muscle disease.
It funds world-class research to find effective treatments and cures; provides free practical and emotional support; campaigns to raise awareness and bring about change and awards grants towards the cost of specialist equipment.
For further information please contact: Lauren Anderson, Media Relations Officer, on 0114 2221046 or email l.h.anderson@sheffield.ac.uk or Dominique Vincent, PR Manager for Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, on 020 7803 4844, mobile: 07827 241 043 or email: d.vincent@muscular-dystrophy.org
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