ALS Genome Research

President Clare Vassallo with Prof Ruben Cauchi and Mr Wilfred Kenely

Rotary Club La Valette Supports ALS Genome Research: Advancing Genetic Studies for a Brighter Future

Rotary Club La Valette is proud to champion cutting-edge research on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a devastating neurological disease affecting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. As part of the Rotarian Year 2025-2026, the Club has committed funds toward whole genome sequencing of at least 10 Maltese ALS patients, contributing to vital research efforts aimed at identifying genetic risk factors and improving treatment strategies.

This initiative aligns with Project MinE, an ambitious global research effort investigating the genetic causes of ALS by sequencing the genomes of 22,500 ALS patients and controls. Through this endeavor, Rotary Club La Valette is enhancing Malta’s role in international ALS research while fostering scientific collaboration with Sicilian counterparts at the University of Palermo.

The Importance of ALS Research in Malta and Beyond

ALS leads to progressive muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually respiratory failure. Research indicates that ALS has a higher incidence rate in Malta compared to the European average, with men more likely than women to develop the disease—typically between ages 45 and 75. Due to shared Mediterranean ancestry, genetic similarities between Maltese and Sicilian ALS patients have been identified, making this research collaboration regionally significant.

By supporting genetic research, Rotary Club La Valette is investing in early detection, prevention, and targeted therapies that may improve patient care and reduce the prevalence of ALS within Maltese and Sicilian communities in the future.

Project Goals and Collaboration

The project will be conducted through the University of Malta’s ALS Research Laboratory, in partnership with the Research, Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT). The Club has also applied for a District Grant, aiming to further expand its fundraising efforts and provide additional support for research.

Key project objectives include:

• Sequencing genomes of 10 Maltese ALS patients, enriching global genetic databases.
• Identifying novel risk genes specific to Malta’s population.
• Strengthening regional scientific collaboration with Sicilian researchers.
• Advancing personalized medicine, facilitating targeted therapies based on genetic markers.

Through Rotary Members’ active participation, the Club hopes to raise additional funds beyond the initial commitment, enabling further sequencing and research.

Community Engagement & Fundraising Initiatives

Rotary Club La Valette is actively involved in spreading awareness and raising funds for ALS research through the following events:

1. Fellowship Session & Research Laboratory Visit – In June 2025, members will attend a presentation by Prof. Ruben Cauchi, lead local researcher of Project MinE, followed by a visit to the University of Malta’s ALS Research Laboratory.
2. Fundraising BBQ & Raffle – A July 2025 event to promote awareness, encourage community participation, and generate additional financial support for genome sequencing efforts.
3. Wheelchair Race for ALS Patients – Organized in collaboration with Dr. Rossella Spataro, a Sicilian researcher, this unique event will occur simultaneously in Malta and Sicily—showcasing the shared genetic connections between both populations. National press and university social media coverage will amplify its impact.
4. Art & Cultural Engagement in the ALS Research Laboratory – Rotary members, including local artists, will decorate the research laboratory at the University of Malta, enhancing its environment while integrating the Rotary emblem as a symbol of commitment to scientific progress.

These initiatives are designed not only to raise funds but also to generate awareness about ALS research and the importance of genetic studies in improving patient outcomes.

Investment in Scientific Advancement

Whole genome sequencing is a breakthrough technological tool that became widely available in 2004, significantly reducing the cost of genetic studies—from €1 million per genome to approximately €1,000 per study. A €10,000 sponsorship from Rotary Club La Valette will provide a solid foundation for sequencing 10 Maltese ALS patients, furthering insights into ALS genetics and enabling future collaborations.

By supporting this project, the Club is helping scientists:

• Uncover genetic risk factors unique to Maltese patients.
• Strengthen Malta’s contribution to international ALS research.
• Improve diagnostic precision for ALS treatments.
• Develop personalized, gene-based therapies.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Change

The long-term aim of this project is not just awareness, but action—to eradicate ALS through cutting-edge scientific research and collaborative regional efforts.

By integrating scientific knowledge, innovative technology, and humanitarian outreach, Rotary Club La Valette is paving the way for transformative ALS research, empowering scientists to unlock new genetic insights and ultimately discover effective treatments for patients worldwide.

Through media exposure, community involvement, and strategic partnerships, the Club hopes to ensure continued support for ALS research beyond 2025-2026, keeping the fight against ALS at the forefront of global scientific initiatives.

Together, we can shape a future where ALS is no longer a life-threatening disease—but a condition met with effective prevention, precision medicine, and hope.