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 University | Alessandra Ferri (03) 9919 4756 alessandra.ferri@vu.edu.au |
Want to know more?
For more information Visit The ‘ProtEx-MND’ project | Victoria University