Qalsody halts disease progression in SOD1-ALS patients: Study

Qalsody halts disease progression in SOD1-ALS patients: Study

Qalsody (tofersen) halted disease progression and improved functional independence and mobility in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who received the treatment in a real-world setting, according to a study involving seven patients carrying mutations in the SOD1 gene. Data also showed robust and sustained declines in markers of…

Finding things to look forward to, even with ALS

With shorter days and overcast skies lasting for weeks due to lake-effect snow, darkness comes quickly after sunset here on Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. Because our nights are long, many of our cross-country ski trails are lit so that people can use them after work. I try to ski at…

Study links constipation with faster ALS progression, poorer survival

Constipation, a symptom experienced by about half of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, is associated with a significantly faster disease progression and poorer survival, according to a new study. Constipation was also linked to worse anxiety, depression, and sleep problems, data showed. “Objective assessment of these symptoms is critical…

$20M gift to Florida university supports ALS research, care

A Chicago businessman and philanthropist — David Husman, founder and chairman of Heartland Real Estate Partners — has donated $20 million to advance research into amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and patient care at Nova Southwestern University (NSU) in Florida. The gift, the largest given to research at the Fort…

Alchemab, Lilly partner on antibody-based treatments for ALS

Alchemab Therapeutics has partnered with Eli Lilly to develop new antibody treatments for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) based on an approach that looks at the immune response of those with slower disease progression. Alchemab will identify, develop, and market up to five new antibody-based candidates. The company…

Revisiting the past is bittersweet when living with ALS

As we head into the new year, I’ve been in decluttering mode. I sorted through my linen closet and discarded worn sheets and pillowcases. I sorted through files and found old tax returns, bank statements, and receipts, and I burned sensitive papers in my mom’s sauna stove. And then I…