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Clarke's column in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
H Takahashi1, K Oyanagi, E Ohama
1Department of Pathology, Niigata University, Japan.
Acta Neuropathologica
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Clarke's column neurons are affected in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). While not initially reduced, these neurons may disappear after patients require respiratory support, indicating disease progression.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Pathology
Background:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease.
- Clarke's column, a key structure in the spinal cord, plays a role in motor control.
- Understanding cellular changes in ALS is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate histological, ultrastructural, and morphometrical changes in Clarke's column of ALS patients.
- To compare findings in ALS patients with and without respirator support.
- To determine the involvement of Clarke's column neurons in sporadic ALS pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Histological, ultrastructural, and morphometrical analysis of Clarke's column.
- Comparison between 18 sporadic ALS patients (6 respirator-supported) and 15 age-matched controls.
- Observation of Bunina bodies and neuronal spheroids.
Main Results:
- Bunina bodies were present in both non-respirator-supported and respirator-supported ALS patients.
- Significantly higher numbers of spheroids were found in non-respirator-supported ALS patients compared to controls.
- Clarke's column neurons were not reduced in non-respirator-supported ALS patients but tended to disappear in respirator-supported patients.
Conclusions:
- Clarke's column neurons are primarily involved in the disease process of sporadic ALS.
- Neuronal loss in Clarke's column may occur after the initiation of respiratory support.
- These findings highlight the progressive nature of cellular damage in ALS.