Manama: An international team of researchers has discovered that genetic factors play a larger role in motor neuron disease (MND) than previously understood, according to a study published in 'Nature Genetics'. The findings show that a genetic cause can be identified in approximately one in four patients - a significant increase from earlier estimates, which suggested a genetic link in only one in five cases.

According to Oman News Agency, twenty-five percent of patients carried genetic variations associated with the disease, regardless of family history, reinforcing the view that genetics are central to disease progression. The study was conducted as part of Project MinE, a global research alliance working to deepen understanding of MND in the absence of a curative treatment.

The researchers suggest that expanding genetic testing could become a necessary part of disease management. More precise genetic information could improve diagnosis, enable genetic counselling for families, and potentially lead to preventive strategies in some cases.

The team analysed DNA from more than 18,000 patients and found that only about 10 percent had a clear family history, indicating that genetic factors may be far more common than previously recognised. The diversity of the study cohort allowed the detection of rare genetic mutations not identified in earlier research, which had focused mainly on common mutations or those passed down through families.

Dr. Ammar Al-Chalabi, from the Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute at King's College London and a study co-author, said the findings expand understanding of MND causes and show that genetic factors are important in about a quarter of patients, regardless of family history - meaning genetic testing should be offered to all patients.

Motor neuron disease is a degenerative disorder affecting nerve cells that control movement. Over time, patients lose the ability to move, speak and breathe, and the disease often leads to death within about two years of diagnosis.