STRENGTHENING the global effort to CURE neuromuscular disease

Thapat Wannarong, MD, has been named the Runner-Up for the Golseth Young Investigator Award, recognizing his impactful research myofibrillar myopathy (MFM), a rare and often misunderstood inherited muscle disorder. Drawing on nearly 3 decades of patient data at the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Wannarong’s study brings new light on the progression of MFM and highlights how different genetic mutations—particularly desminopathy—shape the disease’s course. 

His work revealed that desminopathy is a high-risk subtype, often leading to earlier heart and respiratory complications and faster loss of mobility, but with less nerve involvement. These findings emphasize the importance of genetic testing for accurate diagnosis, prognosis, and personalized care. 

“It is an incredible honor to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Wannarong. “It not only affirms the importance of our work but also motivates me to continue pursuing research that can improve the lives of patients with neuromuscular diseases. I am deeply grateful for the support and inspired to keep moving the field forward.” 

He hopes the research will pave the way for more precise clinical care and targeted therapies. Dr. Wannarong is excited to join colleagues, mentors, and experts from across the NM community at the AANEM Annual Meeting and to continue advancing the field.

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