Wave Life Sciences is developing two ALS and frontotemporal dementia therapies that target a gene mutation common in both. The therapies target mutations of the C9orf72 gene, Wave said in a business update. “I am excited to announce our next development program targeting C9orf72 mutations in ALS and FTD,” Dr.

Levels of pro-inflammatory molecules are increased in the blood of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a new study shows. This suggests that such molecules could be used as diagnostic biomarkers for ALS patients. The study, “Increased peripheral blood inflammatory…

Mutations in the C9ORF72 gene of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) might make it more difficult for them to use brain-computer interfaces, says a study published in the journal Scientific Reports. The study, “Expansion of C9ORF72 in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis correlates with brain-computer interface performance,” suggests not only…

Kip Fontana was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 2010 and was told by his doctors that he had between three and seven years to live — but Kip had different plans. Seven and a half years later, he has just competed in his first 5K race. MORE: Living with…

Inhibition of a key protein called dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK), a neuronal injury sensor, is protective in mice with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Alzheimer’s disease and shows potential for future therapeutic strategies, according to researchers. The study, “Loss of dual leucine zipper kinase signaling…

Researchers have discovered a new way by which a gene mutation can kill neurons in people with ALS and a related disease, frontotemporal dementia, or FTD. Their discovery, published in the journal Neuron, could offer researchers a new approach to treating these incurable conditions. The gene mutation leads to…

This segment from CBS Boston is sharing the good news that the FDA-approved drug Radicava for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is now available for patients in the U.S. MORE: Nine things to know about Radicava The breakthrough drug has been found to slow down the…

The ALS Association is celebrating the third anniversary of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge with a new awareness and fund-raising campaign to support the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) community. The new campaign, “Every Drop Adds Up,” with the help of Kwittken, a global communications agency, aims…

Increasing the production of the muscle protein Dok-7 may be a way to treat the muscle weakness in ALS, a Japanese study reports. The research, “DOK7 genes therapy enhances motor activity and life span in ALS model mice,” was published in the journal EMBO Molecular Medicine. A hallmark…

An amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis can be devastating for both the patient and their family. If a loved one has recently been diagnosed with ALS, they’ll need your support now more than ever. Remember to be understanding and patient. We’ve put together a list of things to consider if a someone close to you has…