Major £1.5m funding boost into muscle wasting conditions

2 September 2026

We are pleased to be supporting the future generation of scientists to help identify new treatments for muscle wasting conditions through 10 new research projects across England, Scotland and Wales.

We are delighted to announce that we have committed £1.5 million into 10 new pioneering research projects across England, Scotland and Wales.

This latest commitment from our 2026 grant round brings our total current research commitment to over £10 million. Across more than 25 conditions, we are now supporting 56 active projects that aim to deepen understanding, explore new treatments and make a meaningful difference to the lives of those living with muscle wasting and weakening conditions by improving everyday quality of life.

This year, we have awarded new funding to researchers in Cardiff, Glasgow, London, Newcastle and Nottingham.

The research projects cover a range of different conditions including Duchenne muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), limb-girdle muscular dystrophies, ADSS1 myopathy and for the first time Carey-Fineman-Ziter syndrome and spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress.

Dr Kate Adcock, our Director of Research and Innovation, said: “A key ambition of our ten-year strategy is to broaden our research portfolio and accelerate the development of new treatments.

“We’re delighted to continue our investment into funding research with the potential to transform the lives of those affected by neuromuscular conditions. With this latest research grant funding of £1.5 million we’re reaching new areas, investigating new conditions and supporting PhD students to become the next generation of scientists.”

The announcement coincides with Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month. Throughout the month of September, we are shining a spotlight on muscle wasting conditions to continue raising funds to support research and help those living with a condition and their families.