A global effort to change the future of MND 

In September 2025, leading researchers, clinicians and MND advocates from across the globe came together with one shared goal. To accelerate progress toward a future free from motor neurone disease (MND).  

The Global MND Research Roundtable, hosted by FightMND, was more than a workshop. It was collaboration in action. With a bit of competition thrown in.  

Building on the foundations of the inaugural 2024 event, this year’s Roundtable reflected the collective wisdom of the international MND research community. Guided by feedback on the Global MND Research Acceleration Strategy and insights from experts worldwide, the agenda focused on the challenges and opportunities that matter most right now.  

Over two days, participants tackled five critical priorities: 

• Biomarker validation: refining the tools to measure disease progression. 

• Asymptomatic disease: understanding the earliest, hidden stages of MND. 

• Human models: building better model systems to test potential therapies. 

• Under-represented regions: understanding the disease in diverse populations, empowering genetic studies through collaboration and strengthening global research equity. 

• Preclinical to clinical development: bridging the gap from lab to patient. 

These are complex problems, but in the room, they felt full of possibility. Conversations sparked new ideas, challenged assumptions and laid the groundwork for real-world impact. It was collaboration at its best. Global, passionate and focused. 

We extend our thanks to the priority champions, whose expertise and leadership guided the discussions across each focus area. Their work in facilitating dialogue and encouraging collaboration was vital in translating these conversations into meaningful actions for the MND community. 

Thanks must also go to Dr Bec Sheean and Dr Gethin Thomas from FightMND, and Dr David Taylor from ALS Canada, whose leadership and coordination made the Roundtable possible. Their vision and commitment ensured every moment counted. We also thank Amanda Nolan and the team at Atticus Now, whose expert facilitation kept discussions sharp, inclusive and action oriented. 

What happens next? 

The Roundtable may have wrapped, but the work it inspired is only just beginning. 

In the coming weeks, a detailed event report will be shared with participants. This report captures the key insights from this year’s Roundtable and will chart the path ahead. 

New working groups are already forming across the five priority areas. These teams will continue the conversations, turning ideas into strategies, and strategies into action. Plans are also underway for virtual follow-up sessions, bringing participants back together to share progress, exchange updates, and keep the collaborative spirit alive. 

The Roundtable was a spark. What follows is a sustained, global effort to push boundaries, challenge norms and drive real change in MND research. 

Stay tuned to our website for new updates on the progress of the work of the 2025 Roundtable.