Researching a rare form of childhood ALS

Photo: University of Malta ALS/MND Lab

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is often considered a developmental disorder, but in rare cases, it begins in childhood or adolescence. This form, known as juvenile-onset ALS (JALS), is especially painful for affected children and families. Several different genes can cause JALS when they are damaged. These genes encode proteins that are important for the normal … Read more

A scientist with a rare genetic mutation in ALS is looking at an experimental treatment

Jeff, Erin and Leigh. / Credit: Jeff Vierstra

Jeff Vierstra’s mother and two sisters all died after complications from IFor Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, but the scientist and the skier hope that an experimental treatment and the first known attempt to prevent the neurodegenerative disease can help save his life. Vierstra was only two years old when her mother died. All of his siblings … Read more

Scientist whose mother and sisters died from complications of ALS hopes experimental treatment will save her life

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Jeff Vierstra’s mother and two sisters all died after complications from IFor Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, but the scientist and the skier hope that an experimental treatment and the first known attempt to prevent the neurodegenerative disease can help save his life. Vierstra was only two years old when her mother died. All of his siblings … Read more