FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·July 12, 2024·6 min readNew ALS-Causing Gene DiscoveredResearchers identified a new mutation in the ARPP21 gene linked to ALS. The mutation was found in 10 ALS patients from 7 unrelated families in La Rioja, Spain. This discovery could improve ALS diagnosis and open avenues for personalized therapies. The findings emphasize the importance of genetic research in understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·June 21, 2024·4 min readALS Study Reveals Subtypes and Promising Drug TargetResearchers identified four subtypes of ALS, which could lead to more effective, personalized treatments. The study also highlights significant molecular differences between men and women with ALS. A promising drug target, the MAPK signaling pathway, was identified, which could lead to new therapies. These findings bring us closer to understanding and treating this fatal neurodegenerative disease.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·June 14, 2024·5 min readFUS Protein Linked to FTD and ALS SpreadA new study reveals how the FUS protein aggregates and spreads in frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The research shows that misfolded FUS proteins act like prions, spreading disease within the brain and exacerbating neurodegeneration. This discovery opens new avenues for therapeutic strategies targeting protein aggregate spread.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·April 27, 2024·7 min readGene Therapy Slows ALS ProgressionResearchers made a significant breakthrough in ALS treatment using a new gene therapy, marking a notable slow in disease progression for a patient with an aggressive form of ALS. The patient, treated since early 2020, has maintained much of their physical and social abilities, exceeding typical life expectancy and functionality projections for their condition.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·April 11, 2024·5 min readPaints and Pesticides Linked to ALS RiskA new study reveals a possible link between storing chemicals in home garages and an increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Researchers identified significant associations between ALS risk and the residential storage of volatile chemicals such as pesticides, gasoline, and paint.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·April 4, 2024·5 min readBrain Organoids Illuminate TBI’s Link to NeurodegenerationResearchers have advanced our understanding of how traumatic brain injuries (TBI) contribute to neurodegenerative diseases using lab-grown brain organoids. By simulating TBI in organoids derived from human stem cells, the team observed nerve cell death and pathological changes similar to those in TBI patients, particularly in proteins associated with ALS and dementia.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·March 22, 2024·7 min readALS and Dementia Share Molecular LinksAmyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) share remarkably similar cellular and molecular characteristics despite their different clinical manifestations. The study analyzed RNA expression in over 620,000 cells from the motor and prefrontal cortex of 73 donors, revealing nearly identical changes in gene expression in the most vulnerable neurons across both diseases. This suggests potential therapeutic targets for ALS may also be effective for FTLD, and vice versa.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·January 10, 2024·4 min readTargeting Inflammation Reduces ALS SymptomsNew research reveals that in people with ALS, structural changes in neurons activate immune cells, leading to inflammation and reduced motor function. A study explores the correlation between neuron changes and immune responses.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·January 8, 2024·5 min readNovel Gene Linked to Range of Neurodegenerative Diseases IdentifiedResearchers uncovered a crucial link between the gene Angiogenin (ANG) and age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as frontotemporal dementia (FTD), motor neuron disease (MND), and Parkinson's disease. In its mutated form, ANG causes stem cells to delay their differentiation into specialized nerve cells, leading to neurodevelopmental defects.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscienceOpen Neuroscience Articles·August 22, 2023·5 min readALS Breakthrough: Neuron Grafting Restores Muscle FunctionResearchers have discovered a promising method to restore muscle function in a severe mouse model of ALS using a blend of grafted motor neurons and optical nerve stimulation. This study showcases compelling evidence that suggests potential therapy avenues for all ALS patients.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·July 21, 2023·6 min readRejuvenating the Brain: Healthy Cells Replace Diseased OnesA promising study reveals transplanted healthy glial cells can outcompete and replace diseased or aged brain cells, potentially restoring normal brain function. This breakthrough suggests a broad potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington's disease, ALS, and some genetic schizophrenia.Read More
FeaturedNeurologyNeuroscience·June 21, 2023·3 min readOmega-3 Fatty Acids: A Potential Ally in Slowing ALS ProgressionSummary: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, may aid in slowing disease progression in ALS patients. Researchers...Read More