The two organizations began this historic collaboration three years ago when fitness pioneer Augie Nieto, diagnosed with ALS in 2005, partnered with MDA to raise funds for ALS research and therapeutic development. The result, MDA's Augie's Quest, was created as a fast-track ALS research funding initiative aimed at filling the drug development gap for ALS. Over the past four years, Augie's Quest has raised $21.7 million for MDA-funded translational research seeking effective treatments for ALS. Notable scientific projects previously funded by Augie's Quest include: work at the University of California at Irvine ($500,000); at Targeted Genetics Corporation in Phoenix ($652,000); and by ALS TDI ($18 million investment 2007-2009).

"My entire life I spent teaching people the importance of physical fitness. But I didn't just preach it. I lived it and led by example. When I was told I had this disease, I knew I needed to do the same thing and make a difference. We have surpassed the original fundraising goal through Augie's Quest. But we aren't stopping there, and we will not stop until ALS is stopped," said Augie Nieto, chairman of ALS TDI, chief inspirational officer of Augie's Quest and national co-chairman, with his wife Lynne, of the MDA'S ALS Division.

The renewed contract announced today includes an initial milestone payment of $2.5 million with mechanisms to add additional milestones and associated funding at the discretion of the MDA steering committee. Progress towards meeting milestones will be assessed quarterly by a review board comprised by representatives from both organizations and non-affiliated, outside researchers recognized for their expertise in ALS research.

SOURCE ALS Therapy Development Institute