Neuro-inflammation as a therapeutic target in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neuromuscular disease that destroys both upper and lower motor neurons, resulting in spasticity, diffuse muscular atrophy, weakness, and ultimately death from respiratory failure. It is presumed that in the vast majority of cases, ALS is acquired and occurs sporadically, although the exact etiology is unknown. Recent, emerging evidence suggests that neuro-inflammation may be a pathological characteristic of this disease; this could represent a potential therapeutic target for a pharmacological agent to help treat this severe disease. This article reviews the current research in this area and discusses theoretical and clinical ramifications of these recent findings.