#United States #Los Angeles #ALS Research #ALS Network #Target ALS

ALS Network Partners with Target ALS to Boost Global ALS Research Efforts

In an important step toward combating the debilitating effects of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), the ALS Network, previously known as ALS Golden West, has formed a strategic partnership with Target ALS. This collaboration is set to accelerate global ALS research by enhancing the capacity for treatment discovery and development. Sheri Strahl, MPH, MBA, the president and CEO of the ALS Network, expressed optimism about this alliance, highlighting how the organizations' goals are closely aligned. This partnership aims to dismantle barriers that have historically impeded progress in ALS research.

Accelerating Innovation in ALS Research

Target ALS has been at the forefront of redefining ALS research through a progressive portfolio of funded projects. Their work focuses on vital areas such as the identification of biomarkers that could transform diagnosis and therapeutic interventions for ALS patients. This partnership with ALS Network is significant; together, they are invested in cultivating emerging leaders in ALS research by supporting early-career scientists and clinicians who are the future of ALS innovation.

Some of the cutting-edge research projects that the two organizations aim to support include:

• - Translating novel ALS and FTD fluid biomarkers of TDP-43 pathology towards the clinic
• - Liquid Biopsy for ALS Using Epigenetic Signatures from Plasma Cell-Free DNA
• - Understanding the relevance of TDP-43-induced cryptic exon expression for synaptic dysfunction in ALS
• - KCNQ2 Biomarker for Precision Medicine in ALS
• - Theranostic potential of profiling CD8+ T-cells in peripheral tissues of people with pre-symptomatic sporadic ALS

These projects, along with others, represent a burgeoning field of inquiry that the ALS Network hopes to promote. Emphasizing collaboration, Manish Raisinghani, M.B.B.S., Ph.D., the CEO of Target ALS, stated that working together can significantly accelerate innovation in ALS research, ultimately paving the way for effective treatment options.

A Transformative Research Model

The ALS Network's comprehensive research program is notable for its rigorous review and selection process, which is underpinned by the expertise from its Scientific Advisory Committee. This committee includes leading scientists and industry experts as well as laypersons from the ALS community, ensuring that a wide range of perspectives are considered in project selection.

Sheri Strahl mentioned the urgency driving the research model: “We seek to move promising science forward quickly with an unwavering focus on improving and saving lives.” This proactive stance highlights the necessity for innovation in a domain that has not seen substantial positive outcomes for numerous years.

Research prowess, fueled by collaboration, is positioned as the key to forwarding scientific inquiry and the development of treatments. With Target ALS's robust infrastructure and the ALS Network’s community-oriented support systems, the organizations hope to make strides in the fight against ALS.

About ALS Network and Target ALS

The ALS Network aims to unite the ALS community to discover treatment strategies, improve health outcomes, and promote quality care initiatives. Covering regions such as California and Hawaii, they are well-positioned to affect change on a broad scale. On the other hand, Target ALS has revolutionized ALS research since 2013 by creating an accessible platform for innovative ideas. Their approach encourages independent peer reviews and supports the researchers' need for access to vital technologies.

In summary, this partnership between the ALS Network and Target ALS signifies a leap forward in global ALS research. By leveraging each other's strengths and resources, they aspire to transform ALS from a life-altering disease into a manageable condition, enhancing the hope for communities affected by this condition.