The hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) are a diverse group of neurodegenerative conditions that affect the spinal cord and are characterised by progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower limbs. Those affected experience progressive difficulty in walking, and may eventually require a wheelchair. Some patients with HSP suffer additional problems, including muscle wasting, seizures, mental retardation, abnormal movements and impaired vision. There are approximately 3 – 6,000 affected individuals in the UK and no treatment is currently available to prevent or slow disease progression.

This project aims to identify the genes that can cause HSP and improve our understanding of the molecular factors that are responsible for maintaining the normal health of the spinal cord.