Targeting a specific part of the TDP-43 protein can prevent toxic protein clumping that drives amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) without disrupting the protein’s normal function, a new study shows. “Current [U.S.-approved] treatments for ALS provide only modest benefits. There is an urgent need for a real breakthrough,” Xinglong Wang,…
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An expanded access program (EAP) at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) shows that such programs can work, a study found. The program enabled 11 people with SOD1-associated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who could not participate in clinical trials to receive Qalsody (tofersen) before its U.S. approval. In addition, it…
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I walked with our dog, Comet, on a trail in the woods behind our house. The woods felt cool out of the hot sun. Light filtered through the trees overhead as I breathed in the rich smell of summer earth and pine. A ruffed grouse crossed our path, and…
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More than one in 10 people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) harbor at least one known disease-causing mutation, according to a new profile from the Strategic ALS Australia Systems Genomics Consortium (SALSA-SGC). The multi-site research consortium brings together major ALS clinics across Australia to collect clinical data and biological…
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A new wearable soft-glove device has successfully restored hand function in a man with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), allowing him to grip objects and feed himself independently. The device was developed by a team of scientists in Germany who worked in direct collaboration with the patient himself. The man…
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Neuralink, a company developing brain-computer interface (BCI) devices aimed at restoring independence to people with paralysis caused by conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), has tested a new implant approach in which electrode threads were inserted through the dura without cutting it open. The dura is the…
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A University of Melbourne spinout company is developing a less invasive brain-computer interface that could one day allow people with impaired speech, including those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), to communicate by attempting to say words. Unlike many current brain-computer interface prototypes, which can involve invasive surgery…
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Becoming educated and informed about ALS is a good first step. Here you’ll find general information about the disease, including diagnosis, symptoms, and causes.
It helps to know others have been where you are now. Here’s a collection of our columnists’ words of wisdom to help you along on your ALS journey.
There is no cure for ALS yet, but here you can find more information about current therapeutic approaches, as well as experimental treatments that are in the pipeline.
