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Associated Press
13 hours ago
- Health
- Associated Press
ALS TDI Announces New Agreement with Axol Bioscience to Expand Access to ALS Patient iPSC-Derived Cells for Global Research
Watertown, MA June 24, 2025 --( )-- The ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI) is proud to announce that a collection of cells derived from ALS patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines will now be made widely available to researchers around the world. This milestone is made possible through a new supply agreement with Axol Bioscience Ltd., a leading provider of iPSC-derived cells and services. These iPSC lines, developed by ALS TDI from samples generously donated by participants in the ALS Research Collaborative (ARC) Study, represent both genetic and sporadic forms of ALS. They include key ALS-associated mutations such as C9orf72, SOD1, and TDP-43, and will be used to generate ALS-relevant cell types—including motor neurons, microglia, and astrocytes—for use in drug discovery and disease modeling. The goal of this collaboration is to provide high-quality research tools to the global scientific community, including academic and pharmaceutical researchers, to help further the understanding and development of treatments for ALS. 'This is a major step forward for ALS research,' said Dr. Fernando Vieira, CEO and Chief Scientific Officer at ALS TDI. 'By making these iPSC-derived cells broadly accessible through Axol's infrastructure, we are ensuring that the contributions of people with ALS who shared their samples and data through ARC can drive discoveries in labs across the globe.' ALS TDI has built one of the most comprehensive collections of ALS-specific iPSCs available today. These cells are derived from real people living with ALS, many of whom also shared clinical data, creating a uniquely valuable resource for understanding disease mechanisms and testing potential treatments. Through this agreement, Axol will manufacture and distribute iPSC-derived cells to academic and industry researchers worldwide, ensuring quality, consistency, and scalability. The goal, to accelerate progress across the ALS field by providing powerful, human-relevant tools that better reflect the diversity and complexity of the disease. 'Collaborating with ALS-TDI allows us to broaden access to highly disease-relevant iPSC models of ALS, which are vital for understanding disease mechanisms and accelerating therapeutic discovery for patients and their families,' said Liam Taylor, CEO of Axol Bioscience. 'This partnership aligns with our mission to build and enable better human disease models by providing high-quality, human-relevant cells and models that advance neuroscience research and drug development.' ALS TDI extends its deepest thanks to every person living with ALS who contributed to this effort. Their willingness to share samples and data through the ARC Study has made this breakthrough possible. To learn more about the ALS Research Collaborative, visit For more information, please contact: Axol Bioscience Duncan Borthwick [email protected] ALS Therapy Development Institute Fernando Vieira [email protected] About Axol Bioscience Axol Bioscience is a leading provider of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technologies, specializing in the manufacture of high-performance iPSC-derived cells and the delivery of industry-leading laboratory services. Axol has a deep connection with the ALS research community and works to support the creation of more human relevant in vitro models to accelerate discovery and therapeutic development. About ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI) The ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI) is the world's first and largest nonprofit biotech dedicated solely to discovering and developing effective treatments for ALS. Based in Watertown, Massachusetts, ALS TDI runs a state-of-the-art research center and leads the ALS Research Collaborative (ARC)—one of the most comprehensive and longest-running natural history studies in ALS. Through innovative, patient-driven science, ALS TDI is working to end ALS for everyone affected by this devastating disease. Contact Information: ALS Therapy Development Institute Meghan Lawlor (978)729-2961 Contact via Email Read the full story here: ALS TDI Announces New Agreement with Axol Bioscience to Expand Access to ALS Patient iPSC-Derived Cells for Global Research Press Release Distributed by
Associated Press
16-06-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Hundreds of Cyclists to Ride Through Durham, NH, June 21–22, to Raise Funds for ALS Research
Durham, NH June 16, 2025 --( )-- On June 21, the streets of Durham, NH will once again fill with the energy and determination of hundreds of cyclists participating in the 23rd annual Tri-State Trek, a powerful and emotional bike ride raising funds for cutting-edge ALS research at the ALS Therapy Development Institute ( ALS TDI ). Founded in 2003 with just 16 riders, the Trek has grown into a beloved New England tradition expected to draw more than 400 participants this year. The weekend-long ride kicks off and concludes in Durham, looping through scenic routes in Massachusetts and Maine. With one- and two-day ride options ranging from 30 to 100 miles per day, the Trek is open to both avid cyclists and newcomers looking to support an vitally important cause – ending ALS. 'Whether you're an experienced cyclist or someone hopping on a road bike for the first time, the Tri-State Trek is all about community, compassion, and taking action against ALS,' said Carol Hamilton, Senior Vice President of Fundraising and Development at ALS TDI. 'People leave this event with a sense of purpose—and with a new family.' ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition with no known cure. The ALS Therapy Development Institute, based in Watertown, MA, is the world's most comprehensive nonprofit biotech focused 100% on discovering treatments for ALS. 'ALS is relentless. The average patient only lives three to five years after diagnosis,' said Dr. Fernando Vieira, CEO and Chief Scientific Officer of ALS TDI. 'Events like the Tri-State Trek fuel the research needed to bring real treatments to people living with ALS today.' While many riders have a personal connection to ALS, the Trek is open to all. Local residents are encouraged to cheer on riders, join as volunteers, or get involved virtually. The event offers extensive photo and interview opportunities with cyclists, families, and researchers who are committed to ending ALS. Media Opportunities: What: 23rd Annual Tri-State Trek When: June 21–22, 2025 (riders depart both mornings from Durham) Where: Start/finish line at University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH Visuals: Mass starts, team jerseys honoring loved ones, finish line celebrations, rider interviews Interviews Available: Local riders, ALS patients/families, ALS TDI researchers and leadership To learn more about the Tri-State Trek, visit . For media inquiries, ride-day access, or to schedule interviews in advance, please contact: Meghan Lawlor [email protected] | 978-729-2961 About the ALS Therapy Development Institute The ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI) and its researchers discover and develop potential treatments for ALS. It is the world's first and largest nonprofit biotech focused 100 percent on ALS research. Led by drug development experts and people with ALS, ALS TDI understands the urgent need to slow and stop this disease. Based in Watertown, MA, ALS TDI has more than 30 full-time, industry-trained drug development experts on staff. ALS TDI is internationally recognized as a leader in preclinical and translational ALS research, and partners with pharmaceutical companies and biotech organizations all around the world. Rated a four-star nonprofit on Charity Navigator, ALS TDI spends 87 cents of every dollar raised on finding effective treatments and cures for ALS. Visit for more information. Contact Information: ALS Therapy Development Institute Meghan Lawlor (978)729-2961 Contact via Email Read the full story here: Hundreds of Cyclists to Ride Through Durham, NH, June 21–22, to Raise Funds for ALS Research Press Release Distributed by
