Understanding Molecular Changes in ALS

In this TEDx Talks video, Steven Boeynaems explains that although we have known about amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for 140 years, scientists still know very little about the condition that affects around 200,000 people worldwide. MORE: Seven interesting facts about ALS Boeynaems talks about the role of TDP-43 proteins and…

Using stem cell treatments to protect motor neurons is not enough to prevent the loss of nerve-muscle connections and disease progression in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), researchers from Italy found. The study, published in the journal Stem Cell Research, had exposed mice to repeated brain…

Takeda Canada and the Montreal Neurological Institute (MNI) are teaming up to conduct joint research aimed at developing new therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The collaborative effort includes developing and examining multiple cell assays from ALS patients over the next three years, from 2017 to 2020,…

https://vimeo.com/168979927 This short video from the ALS Association Texas Chapter shares the early symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) using simple computer-generated animation. MORE: Discover seven facts about ALS you might find interesting ALS is difficult to diagnose in the early stages as the symptoms presented often mimic other diseases and conditions.

OK, so now I’m an official member of the ALS Boogie Board Club! No, it’s not a club for surfer-dudes with ALS. I’m using a Boogie Board Jot 8.5 eWriter, a unique gadget that replaces writing with pen and paper. I received it during my recent visit to the…

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has added Radicava (edaravone) to its national formulary (VANF), making it possible for veterans with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to access treatment within the VA’s healthcare system, according to Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America (MTPA). The VANF is a list of drugs and…

Depression is a sneaky beast. It’s the monster beneath the bed, waiting until you’re vulnerable to grab you by the ankles, drag you into its dark, misty kingdom and leave you to wander alone. I’m just stumbling out of a month-long bout of depression. I knew I…

Four students from New York have been named national finalists in the Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology held at Carnegie Mellon University, after earning top spots in one of the two regional competitions that took place this month. The competition is hosted by the Siemens Foundation. Of…

Rare genetic mutations that affect functionally related proteins act in a synergistic manner to determine the course of ALS, a new genetic screening study shows. It also points to several new mutations that might lead to this disease. “We provide evidence for a number of entirely novel genetic variants of…

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurons, leading to wastage of the muscles. This affects every area of the body and as the disease progresses, patients begin to experience speech impairments and will eventually lose the ability to speak. MORE: Explaining the progression of ALS…