Work

Risk Factors and Emerging Therapies in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Year: 2019

Type: review

Abstract: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by a permanent degeneration of both upper and lower motor neurons. Many different genes and pathophysiological processes contribute to this disease, however its exact cause remains unclear. Therefore, it is necessary to understand this heterogeneity to find effective treatments. In this review, we focus on selected environmental and genetic risk factors predisposing to ALS and highlight emerging treatments in ALS therapy. Of numerous defective genes associated with ALS, we focus on four principal genes that have been identified as definite causes of ALS: the SOD1 gene, C9orf72, TDP-43, as well as the recently identified TBK1. We also provide up-to-date information on selected environmental factors that have historically been considered as key players in ALS development and pathogenesis. In parallel to our survey of known risk factors, we also discuss emerging ALS stem cell therapies and experimental medicines currently undergoing phase II and III clinical trials.

Source: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112616

Authors: Natalia Nowicka, Jakub Juranek, Judyta K. Juranek, Joanna Wojtkiewicz

Institutions: University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Research

Subfield: Clinical Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,824