Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, is an incurable fatal neuromuscular disease characterized by progressive muscle weakness, resulting in paralysis. The disease attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons, which control the movement of voluntary muscles, deteriorate and eventually die. When the motor neurons die, the brain can no longer initiate and control muscle movement. Because muscles no longer receive the messages they need in order to function, they gradually weaken and deteriorate.

ALS Links

The Muscular Dystrophy Association’s ALS Division
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
ALS Therapy Development Institute
ALS Association

Artist: William M. Ross Courtesy of Columbia University Medical Center