A new study challenges the popular theory of intrinsic, dynamic patterns control motor behaviors. Researchers found neuron population dynamics in the motor cortex are different during reaching and grasping behaviors. Read More
A defective protein quality control system leads to motor neuron death associated with disorders like ALS. Read More
Study reveals a self-corrective mechanism within synapses that is activated by neurodegeneration and slows disease progression in animal models of ALS. Read More
Researchers combined intact neurons from a rat's spinal cord with a tissue-engineered 3D muscle system, creating a biohybrid robot, or biobot. After culturing the system for seven days, the motor neurons from the spinal cord produced electrical activity, causing contractions in the artificial muscles and mimicking the behavior of the peripheral nervous system. The findings could have positive implications for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders that affect motor control. Read More
The TBK1 gene regulates the disease progression of ALS in mouse models of the neurodegenerative disease. Loss of the TBK1 gene in motor neurons increases SOD1 aggregation and accelerates the onset of the disease. Read More
When a motor neuron-specific pool of heat shock protein 90 (Hps90) was inhibited, motor neuron apoptosis was triggered. Read More
A new fruit fly study reveals a simple genetic system is behind complex movements. The finding sheds light on motor control issues associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Read More
Using fruit fly models of ALS, researchers discover neurons given glucose transform the power source into energy, enabling them to survive longer and function better. Read More
Zolgensma, an FDA approved gene therapy, supplements the production of the SMN protein to improve motor neuron function in children with spinal muscular atrophy after just one dose. Read More
Neurons in the motor cortex of rats fall into two categories, those that are externally focused and relay information to other parts of the body, and those that are internally focused. When inhibition is increased, the externally focused neurons switch to internally focused cells. Read More
Changes in gene expression help researchers identify ALS associated pathways and establish the key drivers of motor neuron degeneration in the disease. Read More
Researchers have identified the gene STMN2 as a novel biomarker and potential drug target for ALS. Read More
