Neuromuscular diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy lead to progressive muscle weakness and loss of functional mobility.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) affects approximately 1 in 3,500 boys with devastating consequences. This degenerative disease is an X-linked chromosomal, recessive muscle disorder caused by the lack of a muscle protein (dystrophin). Boys with DMD experience gradual decreases in their ability to walk and move as their muscles get progressively weaker. Although there is no cure for DMD, researchers are tirelessly working toward solutions. Several therapeutic strategies are being pursued.
The Neuromuscular Disease research team at UF is recognized worldwide for its translational work in muscular dystrophy and the development of noninvasive imaging techniques to advance the field. This team consists of physical therapists, exercise physiologist, pediatricians, neurologist, physicists and engineers. More information on this important effort can be found on www.imagingdmd.org.
Other teams address other neuromuscular disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease) and Pompe Disease.
Additional information about our research in this area can be found at https://breathe.phhp.ufl.edu/