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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

ALS - Motor Neuron Disease: Mechanism and Development of New Therapies
Published on: July 29, 2007
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: pathogenesis
1Department of Neurology, University of Leuven School of Medicine, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Belgium.
Abstract:
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating paralytic disorder caused by motor neuron degeneration. A subgroup of familial cases arises from mutations in the gene encoding cytosolic superoxide dismutase (SOD1). This review considers insight now being gained into ALS pathogenesis from the study of mutant SOD1 protein and its possible mechanisms of adverse effect on nerve cells. Also discussed are the status of other genetic forms of ALS and the elusive question of why this disorder so specifically targets motor neurons. Ultimately, it is hoped that insights from these types of studies will improve the prospects for developing meaningful therapies of ALS.
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