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Therapeutic horizons for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
1Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA. jrothste@welchlink.welch.jhu.edu
Current Opinion in Neurobiology
|October 1, 1996
Summary
New therapies for motor neuron disease, including neurotrophic factors and antioxidants, show promise. Clinical studies demonstrate these agents can alter the course of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Motor neuron disease pathogenesis theories have advanced.
- Research into motor neuron injury has identified potential therapeutic targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging therapies for motor neuron disease.
- To highlight agents that show reproducible effects on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent clinical and preclinical studies.
- Analysis of therapeutic agents including neurotrophic factors, antioxidants, and anti-excitotoxicity agents.
Main Results:
- Several novel therapeutic strategies are emerging for motor neuron disease.
- The first agents demonstrating reproducible alteration of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis progression have been identified.
Conclusions:
- Emerging therapies offer new hope for managing motor neuron disease.
- Targeted treatments show potential to modify the course of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.