Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Articles tagged with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
The many forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Researchers uncover role of glia in ALS pathogenesis, finding altered functioning of TDP-43 protein and MYC factor responsible for abnormality. The study provides new anchors to understand clinical heterogeneity of ALS and suggests potential biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring.
Study identifies a key mechanism in the degeneration of motor neurons in ALS
A team of researchers has identified a key mechanism in the degeneration of motor neurons in ALS, revealing that chaperone-mediated autophagy is significantly reduced in patients. This finding suggests that this cellular system may be a potential therapeutic target to slow disease progression.
Barrow Neuro Analytics Center doubles footprint to support growing neurological research programs
The Barrow Neuro Analytics Center has nearly doubled its dedicated research space to 18,000 square feet, supporting growing neurological research programs. Researchers at the center are globally renowned for their work on Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, and other neurological disorders using data-focused methods.
New AI model can detect multiple cognitive brain diseases from a single blood sample
Researchers developed an AI model that can detect several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, from a single blood sample. The model uses protein measurements from over 17,000 patients and outperforms previous models.
For the first time, Robert A. Winn Career Development Award opens to neuropsychiatry investigator-physicians
The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program is expanding its career development award to include neuropsychiatry researcher-physicians. This expansion aims to improve clinical trial enrollment and represent diverse patient populations affected by complex disorders.
Experimental therapy shows safety and signals of clinical benefit in ALS
PrimeC, a combination of celecoxib and ciprofloxacin, targets neuroinflammation, iron accumulation, and abnormal microRNA activity in ALS. The PARADIGM study shows improved functional outcomes and reduced ALS-related complications with PrimeC treatment.
Brain computer interface enables rapid communication for two people with paralysis
A new study describes an implantable brain-computer interface (iBCI) typing neuroprosthesis that can restore communication with speed and accuracy for people with paralysis. Two clinical trial participants, one with ALS and the other with a spinal cord injury, used the device to communicate rapidly and accurately, with a word error rat...
Brain diseases: certain neurons are especially susceptible to ALS and FTD
Researchers at DZNE identified five particularly affected cell types in the motor cortex, which are equally susceptible to ALS and FTD. The study used molecular fingerprinting to analyze human tissue samples and found that excitatory cells are primarily affected by the disease.
Eyes as a window to hidden brain diseases
Researchers developed a fast, non-invasive, and affordable diagnostic tool using retinal images to differentiate between ALS and Alzheimer's disease. The tool, based on polarized light analysis, accurately predicted disease severity and type with high accuracy.
What changes happen in the aging brain?
Researchers created the most comprehensive single-cell atlas of epigenetic changes in the aging mouse brain, revealing how DNA methylation, genome structure, and gene activity change across brain regions and cell types. The atlas has already shown clear epigenetic differences between different age groups and allowed the development of ...
Being an early bird, getting more physical activity linked to lower risk of ALS
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that being an early bird and engaging in more physical activity are linked to a reduced risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). After adjusting for various factors, researchers discovered that individuals who followed a sleep schedule that matched daylight hours and had ...
Researchers grow specialized nerve cells that degenerate in ALS/motor neuron disease and are damaged in spinal cord injury
A research team has developed a way to produce corticospinal-like neurons that centrally degenerate in motor neuron disease and are damaged in spinal cord injury. The study uses a multi-component gene-expression system called NVOF to precisely fine tune regulatory signals, resulting in mature neurons with distinct characteristics.
Texas A&M study suggests link between viral infection and ALS
A Texas A&M University study has identified a mouse strain that responds to a viral infection in a way similar to humans with ALS. The researchers found that the initial viral infection triggers lasting damage to the spinal cord and its nerves and muscles, even after the virus is cleared.
Air pollution may increase the risk of the neurodegenerative disease ALS
A Swedish study published in JAMA Neurology found that prolonged air pollution exposure is associated with a higher risk of developing motor neuron disease, including ALS. Long-term exposure to even low levels of air pollutants was linked to faster disease progression and increased mortality rates.
New ALS drug stabilizes decline with a trend toward improved strength, mobility for some
Tofersen, a new drug approved by the FDA, has been shown to delay disease progression and stabilize symptoms in people with a genetic form of ALS. Long-term use of tofersen slows ALS disease progression and death in about one-quarter of participants, leading to stabilization or improvement in strength and mobility.
NU-9 halts Alzheimer’s disease in animal model before symptoms begin
In a new study, Northwestern scientists identified a previously unknown toxic sub-species of amyloid beta oligomers that drive brain changes in Alzheimer's disease. NU-9 decreased this toxin and reduced damage in a mouse model, suggesting it could prevent or delay the cascade of toxic events that destroy neurons.
New ALS diagnostic blood test
A new rapid blood test for ALS has been developed by Brain Chemistry Labs, providing 97% accuracy in diagnosing the disease from a single blood draw. The test is based on microRNA analysis and can also rule out patients without ALS, offering hope to those struggling with this debilitating condition.
Researchers develop models to help diagnose ALS earlier through blood biomarkers
Scientists at Michigan Medicine have developed machine learning models that can analyze blood samples for biomarkers to detect ALS earlier and predict disease severity. The models show promising results, with predictions accurate up to 91% in some cases, and could lead to improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment options.
SwRI, Trinity University to study stable bacterial proteins in search of medical advances
Researchers will examine protein stability mechanisms in Thermus thermophilus to advance treatments for diseases such as Alzheimer's, ALS, and cancer. The team will explore the structure of Rieske proteins and their role in energy production to understand how to restore stability.
A broader impact: UT Health San Antonio Center for Brain Health expands care and discovery across dozens of neurological conditions
The UT Health San Antonio Center for Brain Health brings together expertise in dozens of disorders, emphasizing education, family support and community connection. The center is part of ongoing national research initiatives, including a study on ALS and HEALEY ALS Platform Trial.
Engineering smarter care for ALS patients
University of Missouri researchers are combining in-home sensor technology with artificial intelligence to monitor daily changes in ALS patients' health. The system uses machine learning to estimate a patient's score on the ALS Functional Rating Scale Revised, predicting potential problems before they occur.
New technique maps genetic variants driving neurodegenerative disease risk
A new method developed by Penn State researchers improves the analysis of genetic data, identifying more genes associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS. The technique, BASIC, integrates both bulk tissue samples and single-cell data to uncover shared genetic effects across different cell types.
Global burden and mortality of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other motor neuron diseases in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2021
The study examines the global epidemiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other motor neuron diseases (MNDs), revealing a rising global burden with significant variations across regions. Regional factors contribute to these diseases, emphasizing the need for optimized medical resources and further research.
RNA-based gene therapy may enable effective treatment for ALS – a fatal incurable neurodegenerative disease
Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered a molecular mechanism that plays a key role in ALS and were able to neutralize it through gene therapy. The study found that reducing microRNA-126 levels leads to the formation of toxic aggregates of the TDP-43 protein, causing neuron damage.
Answer ALS completes release of full dataset and integrates ALS TDI ARC study data into Neuromine
The comprehensive dataset from Answer ALS is now harmonized with ALS TDI's ARC study data, forming the world's largest open ALS research resource. Researchers can analyze over 150 terabytes of harmonized data to accelerate discoveries and uncover new disease patterns.
New clue to ALS and FTD: Faulty protein disrupts brain’s ‘brake’ system
A new Northwestern University study reveals how a key disease protein, TDP-43, drives overactive nerve cells in ALS and FTD. The findings highlight a promising new drug that can fix this error and restore balance to neurons.
Common genetic causes across motor neuron diseases identified
Researchers found significant overlap in ultrarare genetic variants between ALS and HSP, including newly identified genes contributing to disease risk for both conditions. This study highlights the shared origins of these disorders and may lead to more personalized care for patients.
Why does ALS take away body movement? – The hidden burden that seals neurons’ fate
Researchers found large spinal motor neurons suffer from intrinsic protein and organelle degradation stress. The study suggests reducing this burden as a potential therapeutic strategy for ALS.
International ALS researchers and clinicians to gather in Chicago for Les Turner Symposium on ALS
The 15th annual Les Turner Symposium on ALS will bring together leading researchers to discuss the latest research and perspectives on the disease. Dr. Don Cleveland, a renowned expert, will deliver a keynote address on developing designer DNA drug therapy for neurodegenerative diseases.
New blood test shows promise in detecting ALS early
Researchers have developed a non-invasive blood test that can detect Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) earlier and with higher accuracy by measuring cell-free DNA. The test distinguishes between ALS patients and healthy individuals, as well as those with other neurological conditions.
WashU chemists reveal new insights into ALS-linked protein
Researchers at WashU have gained unprecedented views of a protein linked to ALS and FTD, revealing unique shapes that may contribute to disease progression. The discovery opens doors to new approaches for treatment and prevention, with the team planning further experiments to understand the protein's role in health and disease.
Research gives insight into effect of neurodegenerative diseases on speech rhythm
Researchers at the University of Kansas found that individuals with ALS can improve their speech rhythm control by speaking more slowly, making it easier for others to understand. The study aims to develop personalized speech therapy strategies for patients with progressive communicative disorders.
ALS appears to be an autoimmune disease
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered that ALS is likely caused by an autoimmune reaction triggered by inflammatory CD4+ T cells targeting specific proteins in the nervous system. Anti-inflammatory CD4+ T cells may slow disease progression and prolong survival times.
Multi-omics machine learning can detect ALS 10 years before symptom appears
Researchers identified 33 plasma proteins that differ significantly in patients with ALS, suggesting the disease could be detected up to 10 years before symptoms appear. Machine learning models showed strong performance in separating ALS cases from non-ALS cases, with an accuracy of over 98.3%.
FGF21 muscle hormone associated with slow ALS progression and extended survival
Researchers discovered that FGF21, a muscle hormone released during exercise, is elevated in people with ALS and may play a protective role. Higher levels of FGF21 were associated with slower disease progression and longer survival in patients.
New study uncovers how DNA damage can lead to Motor Neurone Disease
Researchers found that mutations in the CFAP410 gene change its interaction with another protein, making motor neuron cells more vulnerable to DNA damage and cell death. This discovery provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying Motor Neurone Disease and highlights potential targets for new therapies.
Single hair strand could provide biomarker for ALS, Mount Sinai study finds
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital discovered a unique elemental pattern in single hair strands that distinguishes people with ALS from healthy individuals. This finding suggests a simple, non-invasive hair-based test could speed up ALS diagnosis and improve patient care.
A wearable robot that learns
A wearable robot has been upgraded to provide personalized assistance to ALS and stroke patients. The device uses machine learning and a physics-based model to adapt to an individual user's movements, offering more nuanced help with daily tasks.
United for answers: leading ALS organizations announce ‘Champion Insights’ to unlock why athletes and military members face higher ALS risk
The initiative aims to uncover critical genetic and metabolic mechanisms that may explain the increased incidence of ALS among high-performing populations. By using remote-participation technology, up to 500 participants will be collected, eliminating logistical barriers and expanding who can take part in research.
Study using stem cells created from ALS patients identifies potential new target for treatment
A study using stem cells from ALS patients identified a potential new target for treatment: the integrated stress response. The researchers found that blocking this stress response can reverse damage in lab-grown motor neurons, providing a promising proof-of-concept for future therapeutic strategies.
Unmet potential: How ALS patients and caregivers are missing out on accessibility features in everyday technology
A recent study found that over 90% of ALS patients use smartphones and computers but remain unaware of accessibility tools. These features can greatly enhance their quality of life as the disease progresses.
Muscle “marbling”: Good in steak, bad in our bodies
A new study suggests that marbling of fat inside muscles is a strong indicator of poor health, including obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and neuromuscular disorders. The research found that intramuscular fat acts as a physical barrier obstructing muscle healing and regeneration.
Different causes of ALS converge on dysregulation of common gene expression
A Tohoku University study reveals that ALS-causing mutations converge on the dysregulation of UNC13A gene expression, which could lead to effective treatment strategies. The researchers identified two molecular mechanisms underlying this reduction, including mRNA destabilization and REST overexpression.
Answer ALS Launches AI drug development collaboration with Tulane, Pennington Biomedical Research Center and GATC Health to advance ALS treatment discovery
Answer ALS is launching a groundbreaking collaboration with Tulane University and the Pennington Biomedical Research Center to harness AI for ALS treatment discovery. The Louisiana AI Drug Development Infrastructure for ALS (LADDIA) will prioritize therapeutic targets using AI-driven insights from the Answer ALS' Neuromine Data Portal.
FDA grants orphan drug designation to UAB-developed gene therapy for ALS
The FDA has granted orphan drug designation to a new gene therapy for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a devastating disease with no current effective treatment. The therapy uses a viral vector expressing the secreted isoform of Klotho protein, showing promising results in preclinical studies.
Organ-chips may help unlock the mystery of ALS
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai created a lifelike model of motor neurons that die in patients with ALS, allowing them to detect differences between healthy and diseased cells. The study suggests that excessive glutamate signaling may be a contributing factor to the disease.
Stem cell-derived “spinal cord-like” microtissues afford personalized drug screening
Researchers have created 'spinal cord-like' microtissues from stem cells to study ALS-linked neuroinflammation. These microtissues, derived from ALS patients and healthy donors, exhibit distinct inflammatory responses, enabling the testing of FDA-approved drugs for personalized treatment approaches.
Cultured nerve tissue can be used in ALS studies
Researchers at Uppsala University have created a model of human nerve tissue using 3D printing, enabling the testing of new drug treatments in a lab environment. This innovation allows for more precise medicine and could potentially lead to improved treatment options for ALS patients.
First-of-its-kind technology helps man with ALS ‘speak’ in real time
Researchers at UC Davis developed a brain-computer interface that translates neural activity into speech in real time. The technology allows individuals with ALS to communicate more naturally and inclusively, with 60% of synthesized words intelligible to listeners.
Toward recreating the brain’s immune system in a dish
Researchers at Harvard University's Wyss Institute have successfully created human microglia cells in a dish, using induced pluripotent stem cells, within four days. This breakthrough enables new avenues for brain disease-focused research and potential therapeutic perspectives.
Findings offer hope for future ALS treatment
Researchers discover abnormal polyadenylation in ALS, affecting mRNA function and potentially leading to new therapeutic targets. The study suggests that correcting gene function through polyadenylation correction could prevent motor neuron dysfunction and death in ALS patients.
Research alert: Molecular stress in old neurons increases susceptibility to neurodegenerative diseases, study finds
Old neurons exhibit unique defects resulting from molecular stress, making them more vulnerable to neurodegeneration. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms behind brain cell deterioration, which could lead to new therapies for preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
Immune system discovery reveals potential solution to Alzheimer’s
Researchers at University of Virginia Health System discovered that an immune molecule called STING drives the formation of harmful plaques and protein tangles associated with Alzheimer's. Blocking STING protected lab mice from mental decline, suggesting a promising treatment target for neurodegenerative diseases.
Research untangles role of stress granules in neurodegenerative disease
Researchers show that stress granules, previously implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, can actually suppress fibril formation and even reverse the effects of disease-causing mutations. This discovery offers new insights into the development of potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
Experimental drug may benefit some patients with rare form of ALS
A novel therapy developed by Columbia University scientist Neil Shneider has shown unprecedented functional recovery in patients with a rare form of ALS caused by a genetic mutation in the FUS gene. After six months of treatment, patients experienced up to an 83% decrease in neurofilament light, a biomarker of nerve damage.
New research on ALS opens up for early treatment
Researchers at Stockholm University and UK DRI have identified a common disease signature across all ALS-causing mutations in motor neurons, revealing early mitochondrial dysfunction. This discovery opens up new avenues for early treatment methods, targeting the energy factories of nerve cells before other signs of disease appear.
Sugar-coated nanotherapy dramatically improves neuron survival in Alzheimer’s model
Scientists have developed a sugar-coated nanotherapy that effectively traps misfolded proteins, neutralizing their toxic effects on neurons. The treatment significantly boosts the survival of lab-grown human neurons under stress from disease-causing proteins.
A protein link between brain diseases and leaky blood vessels
A protein link between brain diseases and leaky blood vessels reveals that endothelial cell dysfunction plays a crucial role in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. The study found that reduced TDP-43 levels lead to gaps in blood vessel walls, allowing toxic molecules to enter the brain.
Computational biology paves the way for new ALS tests
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University used computational biology to analyze blood samples from people with and without ALS, discovering different combinations of small non-coding RNAs associated with disease progression and survival times.