Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Motor Neuron Disease describes disorders that cause the loss of nerve cells in the spinal cord that control movement. ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, accounts for 80 percent of motor neuron disease, and occurs in 3-5 people per 100,000. This disease of the late middle-age is progressive and results in death within five years of the first sign of symptoms. Although the causes of ALS are largely unknown, a small number of cases are due to genetic mutations. Most cases probably arise through a combination of genetic factors and environmental stress.
The genetic mutations known to cause ALS have been transferred to mice so that the disease may be studied. The mice then develop the same motor neuron disease as humans including weakness and eventual death.
In ALS not caused by a genetic mutation, there are other probable causes including: imbalances of the neurotransmitter glutamate, stress related to aging or other environmental factors, and interference with structural proteins that make up motor neurons. Each of these problems likely contributes to the disease process. Investigators are continuing to uncover factors that contribute to the development of ALS. We believe that simultaneous treatment of many factors will be essential for the effective treatment of ALS.
