Every day, researchers are getting closer to understanding and treating ALS. Just two months ago, the results of a few research studies revealed we’re closer now than we ever have been before.
AAN 2016
The 68th annual American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting took place in Vancouver from April 15th through the 21st. More than 2,700 abstracts were presented during the meeting session in addition to exhibits featuring the latest technology and products available within the field of neurology.
Two studies presented during the meeting, that we’re taking note of, focused on the advancement of ALS research.
The Studies
The first study was conducted by the University of Antwerp in Belgium. In this study, the team looked at 29 families with the C9orf72 gene mutation. This mutation exhibits what the team is calling “anticipation” with diseases, as the study showed diseases would start earlier in life for younger generations than the older ones.
A similar research study conducted by the University of Torino in Italy, looked at the APOE gene present for ALS and Alzheimer’s patients. This study found that the APOE2 allele being present often results in a reduced risk of dementia, whereas in ALS patients, the APOE2 gene led to an increased risk of dementia by 2.5 times.
What this Means for ALS
Both of these studies focused heavily on the DNA mutations that are present within ALS patients. While neither of these studies has directly led to answers, with each additional question the results of these studies bring to light, research teams are getting closer to determining the exact causes of ALS, and how to better treat the disease.
At Rollx Vans, we strive to be about more than handicapped vans for sale, we strive to make the lives of the people living within our community better than they’ve ever been before. That’s why we got into this business, and that’s why we donate a portion of each sale directly to partner organizations like the ALS Association, so they can keep making important advances in eliminating debilitating diseases like ALS for good.
What do you think about these studies and the results they’ve produced? In what additional ways do you think our community could be assisting research teams seeking cures for ALS and other diseases like it? Comment below to join the conversation!