Research on Familial Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

ALS research scientists are studying families with ALS who lack the SOD1 mutation to locate additional genes that cause the disease. Identification of additional ALS genes will allow genetic testing that is useful for diagnostic confirmation of ALS and prenatal screening for the disease.

 

This work with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis could lead to a greater understanding of sporadic ALS, because, clinically speaking, familial ALS is virtually indistinguishable from sporadic ALS. Some researchers believe that familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis genes may also be involved in the manifestations of the more common sporadic form of ALS. Scientists also hope to identify genetic risk factors that may predispose people to sporadic ALS.

 

(Click Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis for more information about the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of both familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and sporadic ALS.)