What is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a slowly progressive degeneration of nerve cells of the spinal cord, brain and brain stem, and the bottom portion of the brain near the spinal cord. This degeneration affects only nerve cells that control muscle movements (motor neurons), resulting in the gradual loss of a person's ability to control his or her muscles. This disease does not affect mental abilities or nerves that control the senses. Although the cause of ALS remains unknown, current theories suggest that certain chemicals, including one that transmits signals between nerve cells, may play some role in the death of motor nerve cells. For information on causes, diagnosis, and resources click here.

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Research News

Featuring Harvard Medical School and Affiliated Hospitals

Growth Factor Stimulates Rapid Extension of Motor Neurons Study identifies factors controlling cells damaged in ALS.

Harvard Medical School and Project ALS Join Forces to Target ALS Research New collaboration to speed progress.

Combination Therapy Shows Promise May delay progress of Lou Gehrig's dsease.

How Minocycline Delays Progress of ALS Researchers detail how antibiotic delays the progression of cell death.

>More ALS/Harvard Research News

Research Stories

From the Harvard University Gazette

Mouse Stem Cell Line
developed by researchers.

$1M Prize Offered
for the discovery of ALS biomarker.

Growth of Spinal Nerves is Improved
Could play a role in spinal cord repair.

New Center Takes Aim at Brain Disease
New collaborative center focuses on neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS.

>More HU Gazette on ALS

Scientific Reports

From HMS Faculty Newsletter Focus

Probability Pegs Brain Activity

Factor Discovered to Spur Axon Growth Adds to understanding of nerve cell development and, perhaps, repair.

Computer Screening Uncovers Compounds Against ALS Findings may recharge screening and targeted research.

Mutant Protein's Link to Nerve Cell Death in ALS
SOD1 Mutants Found to Target Motor Neuron Mitochondria.

Modified Mice Make Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Physiological role of omega-3 fatty acids in diseases like atherosclerosis, neurodegeneration, diabetes, and cancer.

>More Reports