Muscular Dystrophy Canada Statement on Collaboration with Novartis for National Newborn Screening in Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
This past week, Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC) released a statement from Stacey Lintern, Chief Executive Officer of MDC on a Collaboration with Novartis for National Newborn Screening in Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).
Statement from Dr. Hanns Lochmüller, Lead Investigator for NMD4C:
“We are thrilled to see our partners MDC collaborating with Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc to implement newborn screening as a standardized procedure across Canada. The strong national network of patient organizations, medical experts, researchers, and other stakeholders combined with investment from Novartis is a robust foundation on which to develop a national newborn screening plan.”
For many neuromuscular disorders, early diagnosis and prompt access to treatments are integral in achieving positive outcomes.
Unfortunately, this is not the reality for many patients who do not receive diagnoses until much later. For children born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), newborn screening can identify children in need of treatment and care, which can drastically increase their chances of positive developmental outcomes.
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Call for Applications: 2026 NMD4C Collaborative Research Training Awards
Application Deadline: June 15, 2026.
We are excited to share that the second cycle of our Collaborative Research Training Award program is now open for applications!
Congratulations to our NMD4C Investigators on Receiving a 2025 Defeat Duchenne Canada Research Grant!
NMD4C is proud to celebrate two of our esteemed Investigators, Dr. James Dowling and Dr. Laura McAdam, who have been awarded research grants through the 2026 Defeat Duchenne Canada funding program!
2026 NMD4C Application & Nomination Deadlines
As we start the new year, three important NMD4C opportunities are approaching their deadlines. Members are invited to nominate a researcher or publication for the Annual NMD4C Awards, apply to join the Basic Science Trainee Committee (BSTC), and apply to attend the 2026 NMD4C Basic Research Summer School, taking place June 8–10 under the leadership of Dr. Mireille Khacho. Registration for the summer school is free, with travel and accommodations covered for non‑local trainees.