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Real-Time Fluorescent Measurement of Synaptic Functions in Models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Published on: July 16, 2021
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Risk factors for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Caroline Ingre1, Per M Roos2, Fredrik Piehl1
1Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
Clinical Epidemiology
|February 25, 2015
Summary
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a motor neuron disease, is influenced by both genetic and non-genetic factors. This review examines lifestyle, environmental exposures, and medical conditions as potential non-genetic risk factors for ALS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common fatal motor neuron disease.
- While genetic factors are known, non-genetic contributors to ALS require further investigation.
- Recent decades suggest a potential increase in ALS incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review major genetic contributors to ALS.
- To focus on and discuss commonly examined non-genetic risk factors for ALS.
- To outline future research directions for non-genetic ALS risk factors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of genetic studies.
- Review of non-genetic risk factors including lifestyle, occupational, and environmental exposures.
- Discussion of potential links between ALS and other medical conditions.
Main Results:
- Several major genetic contributors to ALS have been identified.
- Lifestyle factors (smoking, diet, exercise, BMI) are examined.
- Occupational/environmental factors (EMF, metals, pesticides, toxins, viruses) are discussed.
- Links to head trauma, metabolic, cancer, and inflammatory diseases are explored.
Conclusions:
- Non-genetic factors play a significant role in ALS etiology.
- Comprehensive examination of lifestyle, environmental, and medical factors is crucial.
- Future research should focus on efficiently investigating these non-genetic risk factors.
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