The announcement by former England rugby captain Lewis Moody that he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) has brought renewed national attention to this life-limiting neurological condition — and to the scientists working to better understand and treat it.
Among those providing expert insight in the BBC’s coverage of Moody’s diagnosis was Nigel Leigh, Professor of Neurology at Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) and Honorary Consultant Neurologist at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. Professor Leigh is a leading figure in MND research and clinical care, and Founding Director of the Sussex MND Care and Research Network at BSMS.
In the BBC podcast, Professor Leigh discussed the latest advances in MND research, including the role of biomarkers, imaging and immune modulation in improving understanding of disease mechanisms and shaping new treatment approaches. He also highlighted the importance of international collaborations, such as the MIROCALS trial – a European and UK study investigating the use of low-dose interleukin-2 to modify immune responses in people living with MND, for which he was the Principal Investigator. The trial’s findings were recently published in The Lancet.
“Each individual who comes forward helps bring attention to the urgent need for research,” said Professor Leigh. “Public awareness is crucial not just for funding science, but for supporting those affected by the disease right now.”
Professor Leigh’s research bridges the gap between laboratory discovery, clinical care and patient experience. Through his leadership, BSMS has become a hub for innovation in MND, using advanced MRI and biomarker techniques to detect early signs of disease progression and improve diagnosis and treatment.
As high-profile cases like Moody’s bring MND into the public eye, Professor Leigh emphasises the need for sustained investment and collaboration across the research and healthcare communities.
Most recently, Professor Leigh joined discussions about MND care and research following the news of Lewis Moody’s diagnosis on Radio 5 Live, BBC London, and a BBC World service podcast where he emphasised that personal stories from families and caregivers drive public awareness which in turn raises millions to sustain both improved care and scientific progress towards new treatments. “Stories like Lewis Moody’s help remind us of the human side of this condition. Research, care and compassion must continue to advance together.”