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Risk Factors for ALS (Amyotrophic

Lateral Sclerosis)
Posted by: Kurt Raven in Featured, News September 1, 2014

Risk Factors for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

ALS risk factors include an inherited genetic defect, which accounts for 510% of cases
of familial ALS (FALS) in the United States. FALS is linked to a genetic defect on
chromosome 21. This gene codes for an enzyme called superoxide dismutase (SOD), an
antioxidant that protects motor neurons from free radical damage (i.e., molecules
introduced to the body, or produced by body processes that interact and cause cellular
damage). More than 60 different mutations that cause SOD to lose its antioxidant
properties have been found. However, only 40% of familial ALS cases are linked to SOD
mutations, so there may be other unknown genetic defects involved.
In the United States, 9095% of ALS cases are sporadic. Sporadic ALS appears to be
increasing worldwide. The causes are not clear, yet some evidence suggests that the
immune system may be involved. Excessive levels of glutamate can overstimulate motor
neurons and cause them to die. Glutamate is one of the most important neurotransmitters
for healthy brain function. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals from one
nerve to another.
In Guamanian ALS, a dietary neurotoxin is the risk factor. The suspected neurotoxin is an
amino acid (BMAA) found in the seed of the cycad Cyas cirinalis, a tropical plant found
in Guam, which was used to make flour and was a major dietary component during the
1950s and the early 1960s, when this type of ALS had an exceptionally high incidence.

Causes of ALS
The cause of ALS is not completely understood. Researchers and physicians suspect
viruses, neurotoxins (especially in Guamanian ALS), heavy metals, DNA defects
(especially in familial ALS), immune system abnormalities, and enzyme abnormalities.