Lou Gehrig's Disease

Overview of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Lou Gehrig's Disease, which is more formally referred to as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or ALS, is a progressive neuromuscular disease. This disease attacks the motor neurons and works to destroy and weaken them. This results in issues with dexterity and gait, as well as struggles with simple daily tasks such as speaking and swallowing both liquid and food.

Motor neurons are found in the brain, more specifically in the cerebral cortex, and are used to fire off impulses to the skeletal muscles throughout the human body. When these are destroyed, they can no longer perform their dutires and leave a person struggling even with simple tasks. Finally, when there are issues with the respiratory function, this disease can lead to death. Currently there is no cure, although there are treatments that can assist patients live a higher quality life.

Causes and Risk Factors of ALS

Lou Gehrig's Disease can often be from genetic happenings, specifically a defect on chromosome 21 - in which case is it considered familial ALS. This is currently between five and ten percent of the cause of all ALS cases in the United States. The rest of the cases relating to this disease are sporadic in nature. Researchers are unsure what triggers it and have no clear understanding of the causes. There is, however, reason to believe that the immune system has a part in it, as does abnormally high levels of glutamate.

San Diego Trials for Lou Gehrig's Disease

At Coordinated Clinical Trials, we are working around the clock in our efforts to help with the research pertaining to ALS. By testing treatments and looking for causes, we are continually hoping to provide more insight on this disease so we that can begin finding proactive ways to combat it. If you are currently dealing with something of this nature, we encourage you to sign for a San Diego trial to assist in our efforts.

Contact us to sign up for a San Diego Lou Gehrig's Disease clinical trial.