King's College London
Advancing the understanding of Motor Neuron Disease and beyond
The Alan Davidson Foundation is proud to support a multi-year PhD research project at King’s College London, focused on one of the most critical proteins in the study of neurodegenerative diseases: TDP-43.
This support includes both initial funding for a three-year PhD studentship and a subsequent one-year extension approved in 2024, following the strength of the early findings.
The science: Tackling TDP-43 toxicity
The research, titled “Mitigating TDP-43 toxicity in vivo and in vitro,” is led by PhD candidate Leon Crowley, who is investigating how the misprocessing of TDP-43 contributes to neurodegeneration, under the supervision of Dr Jemeen Sreedharan. TDP-43 is a DNA and RNA-binding protein found to be misfolded or dysfunctional in nearly all cases of MND, and in around 50% of Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) patients.
Importantly, TDP-43 pathology is also found in Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative conditions, making it a vital target for therapeutic intervention across a spectrum of diseases. By developing methods to reduce or counteract TDP-43 toxicity in cells and animal models, Leon’s work could inform the development of disease-modifying treatments—something desperately needed in a field where current therapies only slow symptoms rather than stop progression.
Why the Alan Davidson Foundation supports this research
This project exemplifies the Alan Davidson Foundation’s commitment to early-stage, high-potential research. It not only addresses MND directly—one of the Foundation’s core areas of focus—but also contributes to the wider body of knowledge surrounding neurodegenerative diseases, a category that continues to grow in prevalence and public health impact.
The Foundation’s decision to extend funding for a fourth year highlights its belief in the value of continuity in scientific research, particularly when early results are promising. Continued support ensures that Leon has the time and resources necessary to fully explore the therapeutic potential of his work.
Looking ahead
The Alan Davidson Foundation’s investment in Leon Crowley’s PhD project at King’s College London reflects a long-term commitment to meaningful, translational science. By supporting the next generation of neurological researchers, the Foundation hopes to accelerate discoveries that improve the lives of people living with MND—and ultimately, to contribute to breakthroughs that could benefit millions affected by neurodegenerative disease worldwide.
