ALS Canada launches a $1 million dollar grant for ALS research

MARKHAM, ON, June 3, 2014 /CNW/ - ALS Canada launches a one million dollar grant, in efforts to accelerate a discovery for a therapeutic breakthrough for the terminal disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

The grant named after one of the co-founding members of the organization Arthur J. Hudson, hones in on translational research - the pathway that bridges basic and clinical research and takes on a collaborative approach amongst world leading ALS researchers to transport potential therapies into clinical trials.

"The Arthur J. Hudson Translational Team Grant will unite the top researchers and clinicians in the country to collaborate on a project designed to accelerate the movement of laboratory discoveries to the clinic," said Dr. David Taylor, Research Director for ALS Canada. "ALS Canada has built a world-class research community and this new program is designed to maximize utilization of that group's collective knowledge to ultimately benefit our clients living with ALS to have a better quality of life as soon as possible."

The ALS Canada Research Program is largely funded by the WALK for ALS. Forty percent from the WALK for ALS will be directed towards ALS research.  This year, the WALK for ALS on a national scope, is on target to surpass its $4 million goal.

ALS Canada is now accepting applications from teams of independent investigators from multiple independent institutions proposing a translational research approach.  All applications will be reviewed by an internationally renowned panel comprised of leading researchers to ensure only the top echelon of research is funded. Researchers can apply at als.ca and funding for approved projects begins in 2015.

About ALS Canada
ALS Canada, founded in 1977, is the only national voluntary health organization dedicated solely to the fight against ALS and support for those with ALS. ALS Canada is the leading not-for-profit organization working nationwide to fund ALS research and, with the Provincial ALS Societies, working to improve the quality of life for Canadians affected by ALS.  For more information visit als.ca or follow us on Twitter at @ALSCanada

About ALS
ALS is a terminal disease characterized by progressive paralysis of muscles throughout the body. Ninety percent of ALS patients die within five years of diagnosis and some in less than one. An estimated 3,000 Canadians have the disease, yet there are currently no effective treatment options. ALS is caused by death of motor neurons, which connect the brain to the muscles. While the specific cause remains unknown, promising discoveries in recent years have provided significant clues that should pave the way for new therapies and an eventual cure.

About the WALK for ALS
The WALK for ALS is a fun, family-friendly event occurring across the country in 90 locations. The goal is to raise $4 million nationally. Funds raised will go towards providing equipment, support services and education for the ALS community as well as fund world-renowned research to find a treatment and eventually a cure for ALS. This year Toronto Maple Leafs Coach, Randy Carlyle, has joined the ALS team and will be participating in the Sudbury WALK for ALS on behalf of a family member with ALS. To find a location, visit walkforals.ca #walkforals

SOURCE: ALS Canada

Rebecca Grima, 905.248.2052 x234, [email protected], als.ca