Injection of festive spirit for boffins

First published in News by Matt Oliver, Reporter covering North Oxford, Jericho and Summertown. Call me on 01865 425498

CHRISTMAS has come early for one scientist hoping to develop a pioneering therapy to help people with a rare spinal condition.

Professor Matthew Wood, of Oxford University, has begun a study part-funded by an 80,000 grant from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign (MDC) and The SMA Trust into ways of helping those with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

And it is work like his which is supported by the annual Spirit of Christmas charity concert performance held in Oxford.

Money raised from the festive spectacular is used to invest in research projects such as those undertaken by Prof Wood.

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He will investigate how molecular patches can be used to restart the production of a vital protein needed by nerve cells.

They were first used to treat severe forms of muscular dystrophy, but it is believed adapting them could help up to 2,500 children and adults in the UK.

Prof Wood said: With this important project we aim to develop a treatment for SMA and also develop much improved methods for getting these drugs directly to the brain and spinal cord, where they are most needed.

Zoe Williams, MDC special events co-ordinator, said: Professor Woods study is one of ten exciting new projects to help fight muscle-wasting conditions that the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign has been able to fund this year.

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Injection of festive spirit for boffins