Research Strategy
Scientists at the Packard Center for ALS Research believe that better focus may be the key to finding a therapy for the disease. Historically, ALS research efforts have been fragmented. Scientists worldwide have advanced knowledge of the disease, but often in a piecemeal fashion. The Center's founders are confident, however, that picking the best investigators and having them work under an overall plan of attack will succeed. That plan has four aspects:

1. Recruit Committed ALS Investigators Worldwide

   The Packard Center is organized around a group of committed scientists throughout the world, willing to research key questions on the cause and treatment of ALS. To support their studies--even those not directed toward ALS before-- the Center provides expertise, advanced technology and a collaborative spirit.

2. Integrate Investigative Knowledge

   The Center's Scientific Advisory Board steers investigation into novel areas with the potential to advance ALS research. A clinical management team then evaluates therapies that result.

3. Foster Discourse and Collaboration

   Since its beginning, the Center has held monthly meetings for its scientists, where they hear explanations of new approaches to ALS, brainstorm and evaluate each others' work. Researchers also summarize the year's work at an annual symposium.

4. Channel Basic Science Findings into Clinical Investigations

   All of the Center's studies are meant to translate from bench-to-bedside in rapid time. Basic science studies are begun with an eye to clinical trials at a later date. Because many of our physician-researchers also staff Hopkins' ALS Clinic, a well-respected facility at the East Baltimore campus, recruiting for trials is relatively easy.

   The Packard Center for ALS Research at Johns Hopkins was established with the conviction that an aggressive, targeted and collaborative effort can halt or cure the disease