Collaborative researchers from across the world have discovered a variant in a gene called KIFAP3 that improves survival in people with MND by approximately 14 months. This is hugely important considering life expectancy for most people with MND is just two to three years.

In the press release Dr Brian Dickie, director of research development explained that “[this research] is a significant finding, bearing in mind the speed with which MND can progress in patients.

“Just as there are genetic ‘villains’ that can cause or predispose people to disease, so there are undoubtedly ‘hero’ genes that help delay the onset of disease or slow its progression.”

The KIFAP3 gene is one of these hero genes.

What does this research mean to people affected by MND?

This gene variation does not affect the chances of someone developing MND. The results of this research show that people who already have MND may live longer if they have this genetic variation. Treatments can now be directly designed to exploit the effect of this gene variation. Unfortunately, there are no tests available to determine whether a person with MND has the gene variants that improve survival.

What do we mean by genetic variants/variations?

The way that our genes are encoded within DNA makes it possible for many thousands of subtle variations to occur that make us all individuals. These include variations in eye and hair colour and more subtle variations in biochemistry within cells.

To read more about this research finding, or link your website to this story, please see our press release: Protective gene increases survival in MND

We will also be including an article about this finding in the June edition of The News and the summer issue of Thumb Print.

If you have any queries regarding this news story, please feel free to contact the research team on 01604 611 880 or by email at research@mndassociation.org .