Introduction to MND/ALS

• Clinical presentation and progression

• Historical context and evolution of scientific understanding

• Epidemiology and impact on public health

Pathophysiology and Genetics

• Loss of motor neurons in brain and spinal cord

• Genetic mutations linked to familial MND

• Differences between familial and sporadic cases

• Risk factors including environmental and viral influences

Challenges in MND Research and Treatment

• Disease heterogeneity and variability in patient subtypes

• Limitations of animal models and traditional drug screening

• Overview of clinical trials outcomes and difficulties

Innovative Research Approaches

• Use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from patient skin biopsies

• Differentiation of iPSCs into motor neurons for disease modeling

• High-throughput robotic drug screening platforms

• Real-time imaging and automated analysis of motor neuron survival

Personalized Medicine in MND

• Molecular profiling and subtyping of patients for targeted therapy

• Repurposing existing drugs for potential new treatments

• Development of complex brain organoid models ("brain chips") for advanced studies

Community Engagement and Funding

• Impact of global awareness campaigns on research funding

• Importance of patient participation in research studies

• Fundraising initiatives supporting ongoing MND research