(AGRI): Driving Towards a Cure
Target ALS
The ALS Global Research Initiative (AGRI), spearheaded by Target ALS, is a massive international undertaking designed to accelerate the development of effective treatments for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. By diversifying research participation, AGRI aims to move past historical biases and unlock a more comprehensive understanding of the disease's biology.
Breaking the 95% Barrier
For decades, ALS research has faced a significant data gap: approximately 95% of past participants have been of Caucasian descent. AGRI is actively working to dismantle this imbalance by:
Targeting 33%+ Non-White Participation: Ensuring research reflects the global population to identify genetic and environmental factors that may vary across ancestries.
Diverse Data Collection: Building a longitudinal biofluid repository (blood, CSF, and urine) paired with clinical and multi-omic data.
Global Collaboration: Connecting clinicians and researchers worldwide—from New York to Puerto Rico—to study unique disease patterns across different ethnic groups.
Integrated Tracking: Operating alongside the Global Natural History Study (GNHS) to monitor disease progression in real-time across diverse cohorts.
Racing for a Cause: The 2026 Grand Prix
To fuel this mission and raise vital awareness, the initiative is hitting the track. In September 2026, the Grand Prix Go-Kart Race will take over the streets of New York City.
This high-energy event features a unique tribute to the ALS community:
The Drivers: 20 of NYC’s bravest firemen will take the wheel.
The Field: Each individual go-kart will represent a different ALS organization, symbolizing the unified global front against the disease.
By combining rigorous clinical science with high-profile community events, AGRI is speeding up the timeline for new therapies and ensuring that when a cure is found, it works for everyone.
