What is ProtEx-MND? 

ProtEx-MND is investigating whether exercise can slow down the progression of Motor Neurone Disease (MND). The aim is to explore the neuroprotective effects of a 16 week structures exercise [program on the brain, spinal cord and muscles of people living with MND. The participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups.

- Train Group: Participates in 3 supervised exercise training sessions per week for 16 weeks at the Victoria University Clinical Exercise and rehabilitation (VUCER) clinic, or a gym local to you.

- Control group: Continues with their usual standard of care, without added exercise.

Participants in both groups will undergo detailed assessments at three time points: Before the intervention, after 16 weeks and at 24 weeks. (8 week after stopped exercise).

Eligibility Criteria

  • Age: 18-80 y
  • Diagnosis of definite or probable (laboratory-supported) MND
  • Onset of MND less than or equal to 36 months before screening
  • ALSFRS-R score greater than or equal to 24
  • Forced Vital Capacity greater than or equal to 60 % of predicted
  • Patients able to understand and comply with the requirements of the entire study

Exclusion Criteria

  • Any medical disorder that would make physical activity contraindicated, including active malignancy, and severe heart, lung, renal, or liver failure
  • Contraindications to have MRI (e.g., implanted metal, severe claustrophobia
  • Participation in pharmacological studies within the 30 days prior to screening



VIC
Victoria UniversityAlessandra Ferri
(03) 9919 4756
alessandra.ferri@vu.edu.au


Want to know more?

For more information Visit The ‘ProtEx-MND’ project | Victoria University