Articles tagged with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
A study published in PNAS refutes the long-held hypothesis that organelle transport deficits cause axon degeneration in ALS. Instead, reduction and initiation appear to occur through different mechanisms, making axonal organelle transport an unsuitable therapeutic target.
A study published in Cell reveals that only a handful of genes and proteins guide the growth of motor neurons, which eventually connect with muscles. This discovery may lead to new therapies for ALS and provide insight into certain cancers.
A study found that blocking a protein called AMPK helps increase animal mobility and reduce nerve cell death in animal models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The findings suggest energy deficits may contribute to neurodegenerative disorders like ALS, offering new directions for treatment.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a second faulty gene, sequestosome1, contributing to the degeneration of motor neurons in ALS. The study provides new insights into the disease's progression and potential targets for drug therapies.
A phase 2 trial of the novel drug dexpramipexole showed it can slow symptom progression and reduce mortality in ALS patients. The study found a significant dose-dependent effect, with slower disease progression and reduced risk of death at higher dosages.
Researchers found that TDP-43 binds to NF-kB p65 in spinal cords of ALS patients, promoting inflammation and killing neurons. Treatment with an agent blocking p65 activity eased disease symptoms in a mouse model.
A newly identified type of astrocyte cell displays atypical behavior and causes motor neuron death, suggesting a new target for ALS therapies. The discovery offers hope for slowing or stopping the progression of this devastating disease, affecting 30,000 Americans.
The FDA has approved a diaphragm pacing system to help ALS patients breathe longer without the aid of a ventilator. The system, called NeuRx Diaphragm Pacing System, provides electrical stimulation to the diaphragm muscles and conditions them to delay respiratory failure.
A recent study by Mayo Clinic researchers has found a genetic abnormality that is the most common cause of two neurodegenerative diseases: frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The mutation, located in the C9ORF72 gene, was found in nearly 12% of familial FTD patients and over 22% of familial ALS patients.
A gene for Lou Gehrig's disease and frontotemporal dementia has been identified by researchers at the University of California - San Francisco. The mutated gene, C9ORF72, is associated with nearly 12% of familial cases and over 22% of sporadic cases of the diseases., Scientists have discovered a genetic mutation that triggers both Lou ...
Scientists have identified a mutation in the SIGMAR1 gene associated with juvenile amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), affecting Sigma-1 receptors involved in motor neuron function and disease development. The study suggests that further exploration of this receptor may uncover potential therapeutic targets for ALS.
Researchers have created a new model of ALS using human cells from autopsied tissue, finding that astrocytes secrete toxic factors that cause nerve cell degeneration. The study suggests that inflammatory responses and SOD1 function contribute to both sporadic and familial ALS.
A team of scientists used induced pluripotent stem cells from patients with inherited ALS to reveal how reduced VAPB protein levels contribute to the disease. The study provides a novel in vitro model of ALS and offers an unprecedented opportunity to answer questions about the disease's pathogenesis.
A study by Dr. Udai Pandey's lab at LSU Health Sciences Center found that blocking the abnormal movement of a mutated FUS protein in fruit flies can block the ALS disease process. The research provides a valuable resource for performing drug screens to identify potential therapeutic interventions.
Nine patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) were treated with Neuralstem's spinal cord stem cells, showing no unresolved serious adverse reactions or death. The trial indicates the feasibility of transplanting stem cells directly into the spinal cord, paving the way for future treatments.
The phase I safety trial of Neuralstem's human spinal cord stem cells in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting, featuring interim safety data on nine patients. The trial is designed to evaluate the safety of the cells and surgery procedure for ALS treatment.
The study found that over one-third of genes affected by TDP-43 are involved in the central nervous system. The protein also affects alternative splicing of many genes, including its own RNA message. This loss of regulation leads to more TDP-43 accumulation and neuron damage.
Scientists have discovered a new way to generate human motor nerve cells, helping research into motor neurone disease. This breakthrough enables the creation of different types of motor neurons, allowing researchers to study their vulnerability to disease.
A study analyzing data from over 1.1 million participants found that cigarette smoking is associated with an increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Smokers had a 42% higher risk of developing ALS compared to non-smokers, while former smokers had a 44% increased risk.
Researchers discovered a defect in hair follicle stem cells conversion to progenitor cells in AGA. Aspirin-derived resolvins reduced pro-inflammatory molecules and cells in a mouse model of inflammation. A new approach to vaccine design against systemic fungal infections requires inducing Th17 cells.
Researchers at Brandeis University developed a chemical rope to stabilize the SOD1 protein, which causes familial ALS. The approach potentially solves the instability problem, even at high temperatures.
Experts in motor neuron diseases challenge a recent study's claim that repetitive head trauma causes ALS, citing lack of clinical and pathological evidence. The editorial aims to dispel doubts on Lou Gehrig's ALS diagnosis.
A study funded by the Motor Neurone Disease Association has identified a common signature of nerve damage in MND patients' brains, using advanced MRI techniques. This finding holds promise for a biomarker that could improve diagnosis speed and accuracy, as well as assess future treatments.
A disease mechanism linking hereditary amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to the more common sporadic form has been discovered. The findings point to the P38 enzyme as a key factor in disrupting axonal transport, a disruption that results in loss of connectivity and symptoms of ALS long before the neurons actually die.
A team of researchers identified a way to preserve nerve cells in motor neuron disease by preventing symptom onset, weight loss, and paralysis. This discovery provides a new avenue for the development of therapeutics for ALS and other motor neuron diseases.
Researchers identified ways to preserve motor neuron cells in ALS and enhance CD8+ T cell therapy for leukemia. Expanding immune suppressors via TNFRSF25 could prevent allergic lung inflammation in asthma. These findings may pave the way for new therapeutic approaches for these diseases.
A new study published in Neurology found that lithium is not effective in treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) due to a high dropout rate and serious side effects. The research involved 171 people with ALS, but showed no difference between those receiving therapeutic or subtherapeutic doses of lithium.
New research reveals the TRPML1 channel plays a crucial role in lysosome function, offering new avenues for treating conditions like ALS and CMT. The findings suggest that activating this channel could help overcome membrane traffic defects caused by disease-causing mutations.
Researchers at LA BioMed developed a novel approach to efficiently identify disease-relevant genes in human complex neurological disorders. This method was successfully applied to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, revealing new insights into the disease and potential diagnostic tests.
A new animal study published in Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research suggests that eating pecans daily may help protect the nervous system and delay motor neuron degeneration. The study found that vitamin E in pecans provides significant antioxidant benefits, which can fight diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
A genetic link has been discovered between sporadic and familial forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease. The study found that protein FUS forms characteristic inclusions in spinal motor neurons in most ALS cases, suggesting a common pathogenic pathway for motor neuron degeneration.
Researchers are developing a new test to identify the neurological origins of swallowing disorders, which affect millions of people worldwide. The test may lead to breakthrough treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Lou Gehrig's disease and ALS.
A defective protein in spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5) damages nerve cells by cutting the number of synaptic terminals and disrupting intracellular transportation. The study suggests that the complex containing beta-III-spectrin, dynactin, and dynein might also snag microtubules to prevent degeneration.
A double-blind randomized trial found no benefit of lithium in slowing ALS progression, contrary to initial promising results from a small pilot study. The trial involved 84 patients with ALS and showed that lithium plus riluzole did not slow disease progression more than riluzole alone.
Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation associated with motor neurone disease that causes proteins to clump together in motor neurones, leading to their death. The new finding provides strong evidence for protein aggregation as the underlying cause of MND.
A new ALS drug, talampanel, has shown some ability to slow the loss of major daily life activities such as speaking, walking and dressing. The study found that talampanel slowed progression of ALS by 30 percent, according to the ALS Functional Rating Scale.
Researchers have discovered that high levels of lead can slow the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease. This finding suggests that lead may activate a novel pathway able to reduce neuroinflammation and slow neurodegeneration in ALS patients.
A new study published in Neurology suggests that smoking is an established risk factor for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. The findings support the link between environmental factors and ALS occurrence, highlighting potential avenues for treatment.
A team of researchers led by Salk Institute scientist Sam Pfaff aims to develop a novel stem-cell derived therapy for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The project focuses on growing clinical-grade astrocyte precursor cells and testing their efficacy and safety.
Researchers found that administering APC and its analogs slowed disease progression and extended survival in mutant SOD1-expressing mice. These compounds worked by decreasing SOD1 expression in brain cells, indicating a potential neuroprotective effect of APC in mouse models of inherited ALS.
Researchers found that administration of APC protein slowed disease progression and extended survival in mice with inherited ALS. The study suggests activating APC might benefit patients with inherited and possibly sporadic ALS, but warns of potential risks.
Scientists have discovered a compound that dramatically slows the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in mice by extending their lifespan by 25 percent and reducing muscle wasting. The enzyme APC has been shown to protect neurons from cell death caused by SOD1 mutations, which are linked to most sporadic cases of ALS.
The new guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology identify riluzole as a treatment that can slow disease progression in ALS patients. Using an assisted-breathing device is also expected to increase life expectancy and quality of life for these patients.
New guidelines for treating Lou Gehrig's disease recommend the use of riluzole, assisted-breathing devices and PEG feeding tubes to increase longevity and quality of life. Dr. John England and his team analyzed research findings to provide specific, evidence-based recommendations for ALS care.
Premature aging of the immune system has been linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to research. Studies found that patients with ALS have reduced CD4+ T cells and thymic malfunction, contributing to disease progression.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University have identified three genes linked to sporadic ALS, a type of neuromuscular disorder. The discovery provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of the disease and may lead to the development of new treatments or a potential cure.
Researchers found that protein aggregates, previously thought to cause ALS, actually appear later on, increasing in number before symptoms appear. This discovery suggests a larger therapeutic window to treat the disease if diagnosed early.
A genetic variant in the KIFAP3 gene has been linked to a significant increase in survival time for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The variant, found in over 1,800 individuals with ALS and nearly 2,200 unaffected controls, is associated with improved motor function and increased survival by 40-50 percent.
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have discovered that zebrafish can produce motor neurones after spinal cord damage, offering a potential stem cell treatment for humans. Researchers are now screening small molecules to find drugs that could kick-start motor neurone regeneration.
Researchers identified key elements of dynein's structure and its winch-like mechanism, correcting some mistaken ideas. Dynein is responsible for transporting molecular cargo within cells, powering movement of sperm and eggs, and helping cells divide.
High levels of specific proteins in spinal fluid may signal the onset of Lou Gehrig's disease. Researchers developed a diagnostic kit using these biomarkers, achieving 92% accuracy in identifying ALS patients.
A recent study has genetically linked Lou Gehrig's disease in humans to a similar disease in dogs called degenerative myelopathy. The researchers discovered that dogs with this disease have the same genetic mutation as humans with ALS, paving the way for using them as animal models to help identify therapeutic interventions.
A genetic modification has prolonged the life of mice with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by boosting antioxidant production. The discovery offers new hope for treating ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Scientists have identified a gene in mice that plays a central role in the development of corticospinal neurons, which degenerate in patients with ALS. The discovery provides insight into how stem cells in the brain become specific types of neurons.
Researchers found that SOD1 protein stability and aggregation propensity are key factors in predicting patient survival. Mutations that increase stickiness and decrease stability of the protein correlate with reduced survival times.
A Brandeis study finds that mutated protein superoxide dismutase leads to toxic levels of the protein in motor neurons, causing cell death in ALS patients. The research aims to develop drugs targeting key proteins to prevent aggregation and treat the disease.
A study by Duke University researchers found a possible geographical pattern for ALS cases among 1991 Gulf War veterans, with some areas of service showing an elevated risk. The research uses GIS analysis to identify potential environmental exposures that may be associated with the disease.
A new study by UC researchers suggests that cases of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) among soldiers who served in the first Persian Gulf War were caused by specific events, with a declining risk after 1996.
Researchers at Montreal Neurological Institute discovered a critical gene, Runx1, that regulates motor neuron development and maintenance. This finding holds promise for understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS.
Researchers found a significant link between ALS and formaldehyde exposure, with longer-term exposure increasing the risk. Formaldehyde is used in various household products and has not been previously linked to ALS.