ALS Research on Apoptosis
ALS research scientists are also conducting investigations to increase their understanding of the role of programmed cell death (apoptosis) in ALS.
In normal physiological processes, apoptosis acts as a means to rid the body of cells that are no longer needed by prompting the cells to commit "cell suicide."
In addition to ALS, apoptosis is pervasive in other chronic neurodegenerative conditions, such as:
Discovering what triggers apoptosis may eventually lead to new treatments for ALS and other neurological diseases.
ALS Research on Biological Markers
ALS research scientists are trying to identify a reliable biological marker (biomarker) for ALS. A biological marker is a biochemical abnormality shared by all patients with the disease. Once a biomarker is discovered, physicians will have a valuable tool to help them follow the effects of new therapies and to monitor disease progression.
ALS Research on Familial Factors
ALS research scientists are studying families with ALS who lack the SOD1 mutation to locate additional genes that could cause the disease. This work with familial ALS could lead to a greater understanding of sporadic ALS, because, from a clinical standpoint, familial ALS is virtually indistinguishable from sporadic ALS. Scientists also hope to identify genetic risk factors that may predispose people to sporadic ALS.
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