Perhaps it was not as great of a role as is implied. There is a big difference between a technically true statement and the impression it leaves on the general listener. But I'm sure you understand this.
Isaac Newton could claim that he did the research that lead to the creation of most inventions we have today. While true, it might lead people to believe he invented them himself should his PR people phrase it appropriately.
Therein lies the difference. I don't see ANYWHERE that the NMSS "implied" any such thing at any time.
Where are YOU getting that impression? (i.e. that the NMSS, via their PR people, is saying that they did the research that lead to the creation of ANYTHING?) I saw where they said they were involved with a researcher who did PART of some initial work, which then was picked up by another party, which was then picked up by Biogen, which then led to the marketing of a drug! Uh...........that's quite a few hands it went down there.
I'm sorry..........I don't come away with the impression that the NMSS has ever said or even IMPLIED they ever were directly the reason why something came to market.
EDIT: Of course, I may have missed something. Please........show me where they have said or implied that, or inform me of when they might have verbally indicated that. I'm open to being proven incorrect with my interpretations.
SECOND EDIT: Oh, and just for clarification, in case anyone is wondering. It was NOT just a "PR person" or public relations employee of the NMSS who was kind enough to participate in our question and answer session in another thread here.