Story perspectives

First Genetic MND Treatment in Northern Ireland Offers Hope

9/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Western Health and Social Care Trust is the first in Northern Ireland to offer genetic treatment for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) with the drug Tofersen.
Tofersen targets the SOD1 gene variation, potentially slowing or halting MND progression.
Conaire Quinn, the first patient, received treatment in August at Altnagelvin Hospital.
Dr. Gavin McCluskey highlighted this as the first genetic option in 30 years.
Conaire hopes the drug will extend his independence and benefit others facing similar challenges.

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Story summary

The Western Health and Social Care Trust is the first in Northern Ireland to offer genetic treatment for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) with the drug Tofersen.
Tofersen targets the SOD1 gene variation, potentially slowing or halting MND progression.
Conaire Quinn, the first patient, received treatment in August at Altnagelvin Hospital.
Dr. Gavin McCluskey highlighted this as the first genetic option in 30 years.
Conaire hopes the drug will extend his independence and benefit others facing similar challenges.