Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Stuart Millheiser: Do Genetics Play Into ALS?

By Jason McDonald


There isn't much that we know about ALS, in terms of solid cures and the like, which is an unfortunate case. This is the main reason why research is consistently carried out, as I am sure the likes of Stuart Millheiser will attest to. However, it seems like we have uncovered new details regarding this condition and how genetics may play a role. For those who are curious to know what this is all about, a recent study might be of interest to you.

According to a Genetic Literacy Project article, about 90 percent of ALS cases are unknown. However, the remaining 10 percent or so seem to be linked to genetics. Research that was published in the American Journal of Human Genetics spoke extensively about gene C9orf72-mutations, and how these may play into the development of ALS. In this particular study, four of the five offspring in the third generation wound up becoming diagnosed, whereas their parents and grandparents did not.

Information such as this is interesting already, as I'm sure Stuart Millheiser and others can attest to. With that said, C9orf72 is typically found within the nuclear membrane of healthy neurons. When it comes to diseased neurons, according to the article mentioned earlier, C9orf72 is seen in the plasma membrane. What this means is that the element of protein is not nearly as prominent, which is essential for muscle growth and maintenance.

As you can clearly see, there are different variables which go into the risk and development of ALS alike. This isn't to say that the general public cannot help, as different methods can be taken up by the general public and activists such as Stuart Millheiser. For example, donations may be the most direct way to help, since the money will go to research. Given the extensive level of work that goes into this process, it's easy to see why financial backing matters.

Without question, this information is useful and I am sure that it will go into future studies regarding ALS as well. Activists will always be looking out for new information, taking different stories into account so that they can understand the progress being made. For those who'd like to help this level of progress along, it's easy to see that different methods can be carried out. Not only are they relatively easy to do, but the impact said methods can have on scientific development cannot be overlooked.




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