Inherited and Acquired Myopathies

Inherited and Acquired Myopathies

Our research projects investigate mechanisms that drive, and therapeutic interventions against, inherited and acquired skeletal myopathies. We have expertise in Muscular Dystrophy, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and cancer chemotherapy cachexia.

Skeletal myopathies are a group of diseases of skeletal muscle characterised by muscle degradation and weakness. They can be inherited (e.g. the muscular dystrophies) or acquired due to the impact of other diseases (e.g. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, diabetes, heart failure) and medications (e.g. chemotherapy, statins, immunosuppressants) on the muscles. 

The Inherited and Acquired Myopathies Program investigates skeletal myopathies using a translational approach: basic science to unravel the underlying biological mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets; through to pre-clinical and clinical testing of therapeutic interventions aimed at improving patient quality of life. 

These include novel and re-purposed pharmaceuticals and medicinal exercise strategies. We are internationally regarded experts in our field with strong ties to industry, patient groups and dedicated academic networks. We work closely with the Sarcopenia (Biomedical and Translational) Program led by Professor Alan Hayes.

Our network and supporters:

Duchenne UK, Dystrophy Concepts Inc., Epirium Bio, Estate of Dr Charles Bonsett, Mitochondrial Concepts LLC, Muscular Dystrophy Association U.S.A., Santhera Pharmaceuticals, TREAT-NMD 

Connect with us:

 (Twitter) @AIMSSmyopathy

Program Members

Dr. Emma Rybalka

Program Director

Dr Alessandra Ferri

Project Director

Dr Cara Timpani

Member in Training

Dean Campelj

Member in Training

Hannah Lalunio

Member in Training

Stephanie Kourakis

Member in Training

Ryan Bagaric

Member in Training

Bo Qi

Member in Training

Benazir Ali

Member in Training

Nicholas Giourmas

Member in Training

Aleksandra Markovic

Member in Training

Elya Ritenis

Member in Training

Maxson Gin

Member in Training

Sarah Gebremarium

Member in Training

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