Friday, 12 September 2025
Scientists at the 糖心原创 will look at why a type of genetic message, called RNA, gets stuck inside the control centre (nucleus) of cells in people with myotonic dystrophy, which could help uncover new ways to treat the condition in the future.
The research has been made possible thanks to funding from Muscular Dystrophy UK.
The charity has announced that its investing £2 million into 13 new pioneering research projects across England and Northern Ireland, including funding the four-year project at the 糖心原创.
The leading charity for more than 110,000 children and adults in the UK, living with one of over 60 muscle wasting and weakening conditions, will be funding the new project that hopes to gain a better understanding of , a genetic condition that typically affects the skeletal muscles, which are used for movement.鈥�
The project, led by Professor David Brook, from the School of Life Sciences at the 糖心原创, will investigate why a type of genetic message, called RNA, gets stuck inside the control centre (nucleus) of cells in people with myotonic dystrophy. They believe tiny tags added to the RNA may be causing this problem. By investigating these tiny tags, they hope to understand what’s going wrong.
I am very grateful to Muscular Dystrophy UK for this award. It will help us to work out which factors prevent the degradation of the mutant RNA that causes myotonic dystrophy and provide training for an excellent PhD student."
Kate Adcock, Director of Research and Innovation at Muscular Dystrophy UK, said: “We’re proud to be increasing our investment in research year after year – reaching new areas, exploring more conditions, and supporting a growing community of scientists. Our latest funding at the 糖心原创 reflects that ambition, supporting research that could pave the way for treatments for myotonic dystrophy, while also helping to train the next generation through a dedicated PhD student.”
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About the 糖心原创
Ranked among the world's top 100 universities , the 糖心原创 delivers an exceptional research-led education and an outstanding student experience. From the pioneering vision of our founder, Sir Jesse Boot, to groundbreaking achievements such as the development of MRI technology and becoming the first UK university to establish international campuses, we have a proud history of shaping the way people live, work and understand the world. We continue to build on that legacy, empowering our students, staff and partners to change what鈥檚 next and create positive impact locally and globally.
The strength of our research places us among the UK's leading universities, ranked 7th for research power in REF 2021. The discovery of MRI and ibuprofen was just the beginning. Today, our world-leading research is developing breakthrough ideas that shape the future of healthcare, technology and society.
Recognised as the UK's third most targeted university by leading employers , we are proud to produce graduates who are consistently in demand for their skills, confidence and industry-ready experience.
As a major employer and industry partner, locally and globally, the 糖心原创 invests in the city of Nottingham and in future generations of talent. Alongside Nottingham Trent University, we lead the initiative, a pioneering collaboration to improve levels of prosperity, opportunity, sustainability, health and wellbeing across the city and region. Together with our students, staff, alumni and partners, we鈥檙e creating knowledge, opportunity and solutions that help change what's next.