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amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·May 25, 2025·9 min read

ALS Drug Shows Unprecedented Recovery in Patients With Rare Mutation

A groundbreaking experimental therapy for a rare, aggressive form of ALS caused by FUS gene mutations has produced surprising clinical improvements in some patients, including restored mobility and extended survival. The treatment uses antisense technology to silence the FUS gene, reducing toxic protein buildup in motor neurons. Two patients in a recent case series showed remarkable responses—one regained the ability to walk and breathe unassisted, while another has remained symptom-free for three years.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·April 8, 2025·5 min read

Natural Compound in Kale May Help Treat ALS and Dementia

A natural antioxidant found in foods like kale and berries, kaempferol, may help protect nerve cells and shows promise as a treatment for ALS and dementia. Researchers found that it improves energy production and eases stress within nerve cells, helping maintain muscle function and slow degeneration.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·November 8, 2024·6 min read

Pathway Identified for Early Intervention in ALS Progression

Researchers have uncovered a mechanism that may trigger ALS’s earliest stages, identifying proteins that mislocalize, causing neuron degeneration. By targeting the RNA-binding protein SmD1, scientists were able to prevent key ALS proteins from leaving their protective cellular zones, preserving neuron function. The findings may lead to ALS therapies capable of halting progression before significant neurodegeneration occurs, offering potential new strategies against the disease.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·October 21, 2024·5 min read

Viral DNA in Our Genome Linked to ALS and MS Susceptibility

A new study reveals that ancient viral DNA embedded in the human genome is associated with genetic risk for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers found specific human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) that influence susceptibility to these neurodegenerative diseases.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·October 15, 2024·6 min read

Toxic Protein May Uniquely Affect Brain, Spine, and Muscles in ALS

A recent study reveals that the toxic trimer form of the protein SOD1 affects the brain, spinal cord, and muscle tissues differently in ALS, shedding light on its complex progression. The study found SOD1 trimers bind uniquely to different proteins in each tissue type, potentially impacting cellular communication, structure, and energy production. For instance, SOD1 trimers in neurons affect cellular aging and communication, while in muscle cells, they disrupt metabolic processes.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·August 23, 2024·5 min read

Two New Proteins Linked to ALS

A new study identifies two proteins that interact with a mutant FUS variant linked to familial ALS, offering a potential therapeutic target. Researchers found that inhibiting these proteins in motor neurons derived from human stem cells reduced ALS-related changes. The findings suggest that similar mechanisms may be involved in sporadic ALS, which affects most patients. Further research will explore these proteins' roles in other ALS-related genes and sporadic cases.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·July 12, 2024·6 min read

New ALS-Causing Gene Discovered

Researchers 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.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·June 21, 2024·4 min read

ALS Study Reveals Subtypes and Promising Drug Target

Researchers 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.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·April 27, 2024·7 min read

Gene Therapy Slows ALS Progression

Researchers 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.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·April 11, 2024·5 min read

Paints and Pesticides Linked to ALS Risk

A 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.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·February 11, 2023·6 min read

Large-Scale Generation of Muscle-Controlling Nerve Cells From ALS Patients

A person's sex is one of the main drivers of altered gene expression in motor neurons, regardless of whether they were derived from patients diagnosed with ALS. Male ALS stem cells generated significantly more motor neurons than the control group, however, this was not seen in female samples.