Almirall provides grants for multiple sclerosis spasticity research

Almirall has provided research grants to a pair of European scientists conducting studies into multiple sclerosis (MS) spasticity.

During its official awards ceremony for 2012, the pharmaceutical company presented its MS spasticity research grants to Dr Thorsten Schultheiss from Germany and Spain's Maria Carmen Molina Diaz.

Dr Schultheiss, of the Neurology Department at Dresden University Hospital, won his prize for his research into the benefits of Sativex treatment for MS patients, while Ms Diaz was honoured for research into how videoconferencing can aid the physiotherapy process.

This is the second year that this grant programme has been run, with funding of 24,000 euros (20,000 pounds) presented to winners.

Professor Hans-Peter Hartung, a member of the jury for the award scheme, said: "Undoubtedly, spasticity is one of the most important [MS] symptoms … and any research in this area is an important step forward."

In January 2012, Almirall announced the formation of a new research alliance with BioFocus, which will centre on the development of respiratory disease therapies over the next three years.