Some congenital myopathies and other muscle conditions are caused by changes in the gene that makes a protein called RyR1. In people living with these conditions, different types of changes, known as modifications, have been found on a protein involved in muscle contraction, called myosin. This research, partly funded by Muscular Dystrophy UK, may help to understand RyR1-related muscle wasting conditions and could lead to the development of new treatments.

On Thursday, 21 March 2024, the oral drug for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), Duvyzat (also known as givinostat), was approved by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) for use in boys aged 6 and older in the United States. Duvyzat is the first non-steroidal drug approved to treat people with all genetic variations of DMD.

Six-year-old Rory has Beckers muscular dystrophy and is neurodivergent. This Neurodiversity awareness week, Rory’s mum Kerry opens up about why having ADHD creates extra challenges with a muscle wasting condition. We also hear about the need for more research into the link between some muscular dystrophies and neurodivergence.

Sports anchor, podcaster and author, Gabby Logan MBE last ran a half marathon two decades ago, but on Sunday 7 April, she is taking on the London Landmarks Half Marathon in support of Muscular Dystrophy UK. Gabby has been our President since 2018 and has shown her support in various ways, including hosting events and helping to raise awareness of muscular dystrophy, but this will be her first running challenge for us. She has been inspired by watching others taking on challenges.

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) conference took place in Orlando, Florida between 2 and 6 March 2024. Our Research Communications Officer shares her thoughts and the latest developments in the research field of muscular dystrophy.

The research work of Professor Linda Popplewell and Dr Alberto Malerba reveals high levels of periostin − a protein involved in the formation of scar tissue − in mice with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). These findings could potentially have a big effect on the development of targeted therapies for people living with DMD.  

Debbie Hoods, Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships at the charity, is leading the work on our garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Here she explains more about the garden and how preparations are going.

On Wednesday 6 March, the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP delivered the Spring Budget, which provides an update on the Government’s economic plans. As this may be the last time the Chancellor makes a budget announcement before the next general election, the measures outlined will likely set the direction the UK Government will take during 2024.