Genetic ALS

MDA 2024: Blocking protein shows promise for genetic form of ALS

Blocking a protein called PTP sigma led to better nerve survival and motor function in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) caused by mutations in the C9ORF72 gene — leading the researchers to highlight this strategy for potentially treating this genetic ALS form. Data from cell models…

Qalsody’s conditional OK for genetic cause of ALS hailed as new ‘option’

The recent conditional approval of Qalsody (tofersen) for adults with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who carry mutations in the SOD1 gene is a major cause for celebration, according to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). The therapy earned accelerated approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)…

ALS, Frontotemporal Dementia Have Distinct Patterns of Brain Inflammation, Study Shows

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are caused by different patterns of inflammation in the brain, which may help explain why these two illnesses are so distinct. The German study, “Different neuroinflammatory profile in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia is linked to the…