Friedreich's Ataxia Insights

This week's must-know community updates, latest research & events

Top Stories

Latest Research

Researchers are exploring a new potential treatment for Friedreich's ataxia using a fusion protein called nomlabofusp. This protein combines human frataxin with a cell-penetrant peptide, aiming to deliver functional frataxin into mitochondria. The idea is to address the root cause of the disorder by enhancing mitochondrial function, which is crucial for cellular energy production. This approach is promising because frataxin plays a key role in maintaining healthy mitochondria, and its deficiency is central to the disease's progression.

The development of nomlabofusp highlights ongoing efforts to find effective treatments for Friedreich's ataxia. While current treatments focus on managing symptoms, innovative therapies like nomlabofusp aim to target the underlying genetic and biochemical issues. This research is significant as it offers hope for improving the lives of those affected by this condition. The study by Baile (2025) underscores the importance of continued research into novel therapeutic strategies.

Clinical Trials

This is a list of upcoming or ongoing clinical trials that are actively recruiting and have been listed or updated in the last two weeks:
A Study to Find Out How BIIB141 (Omaveloxolone) is Processed in the Body and to Learn More About Its Safety in Participants With Friedreich's Ataxia Aged 2 to 15 Years Old
Study Type
Phase I
Location
Pennsylvania
Age Range
2 - 15 Years
Enrollment
20
A Study to Assess Nomlabofusp in Adolescents and Children with Friedreich's Ataxia
Study Type
Phase I
Location
Maryland
Age Range
2 - 17 Years
Enrollment
30
A Study to Learn More About the Long-Term Safety of BIIB141 (Omaveloxolone) in Participants With Friedreich's Ataxia Who Are Prescribed it for the First Time
Study Type
Observational
Location
7 countries
Age Range
16+ Years
Enrollment
300
Friedreich Ataxia Global Clinical Consortium UNIFIED Natural History Study
Study Type
Observational
Location
17 countries
Age Range
0 - Not specified
Enrollment
3000

Community News

Ataxie Ataxia CanadaAtaxie Ataxia CanadaMar 26, 2025

♿️ Excellente nouvelle!

Les projets d’adaptation de domicile sont de retour sur les rails!

Après une longue pause causée par un manque de financement, le Programme d’adaptation de domicile (PAD) recevra enfin un coup de pouce bien mérité : 38 M$ seront investis en 2025-2026!

⭐️ Cette annonce, faite dans le budget provincial d’hier, redonne espoir à plusieurs personnes en situation de handicap et à leur entourage.

Une belle avancée vers des milieux de vie plus accessibles et inclusifs!

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♿️ Great news!

Home adaptation projects are back on track!

After a long pause due to lack of funding, the Home Adaptation Program (PAD) is finally getting a well-deserved boost: $38 million will be invested in 2025–2026!

⭐️ This announcement, made in yesterday’s provincial budget, brings hope to many people living with disabilities and their families.

A big step forward toward more accessible and inclusive living spaces!

National Ataxia FoundationNational Ataxia FoundationMar 31, 2025

Bill Nye The Science Guy took some time between sessions at #2025AAC to talk about Ataxia with KSNV News 3, Las Vegas. Bill’s family is affected by Spinocerebellar Ataxia type 27b (SCA27b). A huge thank you to our favorite Science Guy for continuing to bring light to this rare group of movement disorders.

Did you catch Bill at this year’s conference? Send us your pictures in the comments!

National Ataxia Foundation Post
Cure FACure FAApr 01, 2025

Last week, FARA co-founder, Ron Bartek, and FA community members, Loren & Kat Hood and Claire, Catie, & Maureen Juip, attended the Congressional Forum on “Cures in Crisis” to advocate for protecting NIH funding. Former NIH Director, Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, shared the importance of NIH-supported research not only for the development of lifesaving medicines but also as a significant contributor to the nation’s economy. The testimony from Dr. Bertagnolli and others will help to document the impact of cuts to NIH and provide information with which to continue advocacy efforts.

Cure FA Post

Upcoming Events

APR
05
rideATAXIA Gainesville eventIn Person Ride Ataxia
APR
18
Botox for Symptom ManagementOnline National Ataxia Foundation
APR
26
FA Research ReceptionsIn Person Cure FA • Downingtown, PA
MAY
10
Specialist Ataxia Nurse service launchIn Person Ataxia UK • London, United Kingdom
JUL
20
rideATAXIA Chicago eventIn Person Ride Ataxia