In a new study by a team of U.S. scientists, a group of inflammatory immune cells was found to mistakenly target the C9ORF72 protein in nerve cells in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) — demonstrating that ALS may be an autoimmune disease. The findings, by researchers at the…
For years, researchers have been chasing a so-called silver bullet compound that could effectively treat anyone with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Hande Ozdinler, an associate professor of neurology at Northwestern University, thinks that this approach should be reassessed and a different, more nuanced view of ALS treatment should…
FGF21, a hormone that helps cells regulate energy use and respond to stress, may protect muscles and nerve cells from damage related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), slowing disease progression. A study found ALS patients had significantly higher levels of FGF21 in their blood and muscles than healthy controls,…
Researchers identified three forms, or biotypes, of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), each with distinct mechanisms that could suggest pathways for biologically specific treatment. A machine learning model was able to classify people with ALS into these three groups using demographic and disease-related information. “The machine learning model we developed,…
My frustration brought me to tears today, and I had to take a step back and remember to care for myself in addition to caring for my husband, Todd, who has ALS. Todd’s new wheelchair was delivered today, and like the one he’s been in for the past 11…
Much of what people understand about ALS progression comes from the stories they see and hear most often — and those stories can be misleading. Social media amplifies the voices of people who have lived with the disease for years, sometimes decades. This makes perfect sense: Slower progression means…
Last week, I opened my inbox and an article from ALS News Today caught my eye. The story, “Maximizing lung function with ALS,” explained how patients can proactively manage their lung health while living with ALS. After reading it, I pumped my fist in the air, a…
Immune checkpoint proteins — proteins that help regulate immune response — were elevated on T-cells and in the blood of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a small study found, suggesting they may play a role in how the disease develops. The increases were associated with more severe…
The ALS Network is honoring actor Eric Dane as its Advocate of the Year, granting the former TV doctor the annual award in recognition of his efforts and commitment to raising awareness and support for people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The award will be presented at…
Autumn has a very specific feeling where I live on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Right now, the daylight is getting shorter, the temperature is more brisk, and the lush greens of summer have given way to more muted hues as leaves get ready to change color and fall from…
