MD refers to a group of more than 30 genetic diseases characterized by muscle weakness and muscle loss, which lead to reduced motor function and coordination. MD progresses or gets worse over time. Some forms of MD appear in infancy or childhood, while others may not appear until adulthood or middle age.
NICHD works with other federal agencies and NIH institutes to understand this neuromuscular disease. In collaboration with other NIH institutes and centers, NICHD supports the Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Specialized Research Centers, which bring together expertise, infrastructure, and resources to address major questions and support research collaborations in MD.
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