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Nerve-protecting Cells Hold Potential in Development of ALS Therapies

A specific type of supporting cells called Schwann cells protect against nerve degeneration induced by the blood-clotting protein thrombin, according to new research in mice. Researchers say the findings could have implications for treatment development in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s. The study, “…

Caregiver Burden Tied to Patients’ Level of Apathy in Study

Higher levels of apathy — particularly its behavioral symptoms — in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are associated with a degree of greater burden for caregivers, according to a new study. The research, “The burden of apathy for caregivers of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,”…

ALS MRI Marker May Facilitate Diagnosis and Monitoring, Study Finds

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) marker may facilitate amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients’ diagnosis and disease monitoring, a study finds. The study, “Is the Hypointensity in Motor Cortex the Hallmark of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?,” was published in the Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences. ALS is a progressive neurological…

Occupational Exposure to Silica May Increase Risk of ALS, Study Suggests

Occupational exposure to silica is linked to a significantly increased risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a population-based study suggests. The study “Multicentre, population-based, case-control study of particulates, combustion products and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis risk” was published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry. The cause of…