Lack of sigma-1 receptor exacerbates ALS progression in mice

The function of the sigma-1 receptor (S1R) has been implicated in modulating the activity of various ion channels. In the CNS S1R is enriched in cholinergic postsynaptic densities in spinal cord motoneurons (MNs). Mutations in S1R have been found in familial cases of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In this study we show that a knockout of S1R in the SOD1*G93A mouse model of ALS significantly reduces longevity (end stage). Electrophysiological experiments demonstrate that MN of mice lacking S1R exhibit increased excitability. Taken together the data suggest the S1R acts as a brake on excitability, an effect that might enhance longevity in an ALS mouse model.