Stories by Topic

Research

Clinical Trials

Antioxidants/Oxidative Stress

• Researchers Probe Role of Lipid Overload (Oct. 2002)
• Oxidative Stress, Copper May Be Wrong Suspects in ALS (April 2002)
• Fullerenes May Be Next Major Antioxodants (November 1997)

Communication

• Partners Cope When Speech Is Lost (October 2004)
• Minority of Long-Term ALS Survivors Lose Communication Ability (Sept. 2003)

Drugs/Trials

• FDA Withholds Approval of Pseudobulbar Affect Drug (Jan. 2007)
• Is Generic Rilutek on the Way? (Jan. 2007)
• Direct Delivery Gets Around Baclofen Sedation (Jan. 2007)
• Selecting Early Responders May Speed Drug Testing (Jan. 2007)
• Trial of Anti-Cramping Drug Seeks Patients (Nov.-Dec. 2006)
• Modafinil for Fatigue Under Study (Oct. 2006)
• Arimoclomol Safety Trial Is Complete (Sept. 2006)
• Investigators Testing Variant of Parkinson's Drug (Aug. 2006)
• Lipitor Being Tested in Houston (Aug. 2006)
• Ceftriaxone Trial Opens at Eight Centers (Aug. 2006)
• Combination Drug Trial to Start (June-July 2006)
• Anti-Enzyme Compound May Help Preserve Protection (June-July 2006)
• Two Meds Are Better Than One (June-July 2006)
• New Compound Boosts Glutamate Transport (May 2006)
• Mice With ALS Benefit From Thalidomide (May 2006)
• FDA Will Allow Ceftriaxone Study (May 2006)
• ALS Research: Where Are We Headed? (May 2006)
• Creatine Fails Again (March 2006)
• Pentoxifylline Not Helpful in ALS (Feb. 2006)
• Potent Antioxidant Found Safe, Well Tolerated (Jan. 2006)
• Copaxone Results Encourage Investigators (Jan. 2006)
• Arimoclomol Multicenter Trial Set to Begin (Dec. 2005)
• Celgene Tries Thalidomide (June 2005)
• High-Dose Tamoxifen May Prolong Survival (June 2005)
• Cyclosporine Revisited (Feb.-Mar. 2005)
• Ceftriaxone Helps Mice (Feb.-Mar. 2005)
• Modafinil May Help With Staying Awake (Feb.-Mar. 2005)
• Novartis Drug Fails ALS Test (Feb.-Mar. 2005)
• Report Shows Tamoxifen Safe, Maybe Beneficial (Jan. 2005)
• High-Dose CoQ10 Looks Safe in Long-Term Study (Jan. 2005)
• Celebrex Fails ALS Test (December 2004)
• Parkinson's Drug Helps Mice With ALS (November 2004)
• Avanir Still Seeks Volunteers for Neurodex Study (November 2004)
• Xaliproden Fails in ALS, But Hope Remains (October 2004)
• CoQ10 Still on Trial (October 2004)
• Trial of MS Drug Opens in New York (glatiramer acetate) (Aug./Sept. 2004)
• Minocycline Shown Relatively Safe in Early Trials (July 2004)
• Indinavir Shown Ineffective in ALS (June 2004)
• Blood Biomarkers Need Study Participants (June 2004)
• Study of New Compound Open (TCH 346) (Feb. 2004)
• Study Finds No Benefit From Creatine in ALS (Dec. 2003)
• Riluzole Revisited: When and How Much? (Dec. 2003)
• Marijuana Relieves ALS Symptoms, Survey Suggests (Dec. 2003)
• Minocycline Study Finally Opens (Nov. 2003)
• Researchers at Neurology Meeting Explore SOD1, New Drugs, Stem Cells (May 2003)
• MS Drug Shows Promise Against ALS (May 2003)
• Multidrug Approach Gains Momentum (April 2003)
• 'Drug Cocktail' Shown Doubly Effective Against ALS in Mice (Feb. 2003)
• Researchers Probe Marijuana in ALS (Feb. 2003)
• Pentoxifylline Under Study in Europe (Feb. 2003)
• Topiramate Shows No Benefit in ALS (Jan. 2003)
• ALS Researchers Meet in Melbourne and Review Drug Progress (Dec. 2002)
• Scientists Report Progress Toward Drug Therapies (Dec. 2002)
• Third Trial Needed to Judge Myotrophin (Sept. 2002)
• Trials Help Scientists Take Small Steps to Big Goals, New Mexico Director Says (Aug. 2002)
• Avicena Wants to Market Cratine as Orphan Drug (Aug. 2002)
• Drug for Emotional Instability Shows Promise (Aug. 2002)
• Riluzole's Benefits Hold Up Under Scrutiny (Aug. 2002)
• Rilutek Safe but Weak; Better Drugs May Be on the Way (May 2002)
• Rilutek Assistance (February 2002)
• Sprouting Neurons (Dec. 2001)
• Vitamin E Might Help a Little (August 2001)
• First Look Suggests Some Benefit From CoQ10 (June 2001)
• Study of Buspirone for Respiratory Impairment Under Way at Two Centers (April 2001)
• Creatine Risks Noted by French Agency (February 2001)
• No Merit to Purported Benefits of Snake Venom (October 2000
• Study Suggests Loss of Zinc From SOD1 Common Trigger for All ALS (February 2000)
• Blood Tests to Check Liver Urged for Those on Riluzole (June 1999)
• MDA-Associated Doctors Respond to Riluzole Liver Issues (June 1999)
• Amgen Drops GDNF Program, Continues BDNF Study (June 1999)
• Use Caution With Creatine (June 1999)
• Supplement Found Beneficial in ALS (April 1999)
• New Product May Help Control Crying, Laughing in ALS (April 1999)
• Drugs for ALS -- Where Are We Now? (February 1999)
• Penicillamine Not Helpful So Far in Genetic ALS (December 1998)
• Coenzyme Q10 Saves Nerve Cells in Mice With ALS (October 1998)
• Experts Meet on Combination Trials (April 1996)
• MDA Researcher's Mouse Shows Value of Drugs (February 1996)
• MDA, Amgen Discuss ALS Drug Trials (February 1996)
• MDA Lays Groundwork for Combination Drug Trials (January 1996)

Epidemiology

• Report Concludes Military Tie Deserves Further Study (Jan. 2007)
• Studies Probe ALS Risk, Severity (Nov.-Dec. 2006)
• Study Will Bank Data and Biomaterial (Oct. 2006)
• CDC Gets $900,000 to Start ALS Registry (April 2006)
• Large-Scale ALS Factors Study Enters Phase 2 (Jan. 2006)
• MDA-Funded ALS Registry Now Online (Jan. 2006)
• National ALS Database Proposal Before Congress (Sept. 2005)
• VA Changes Web Site for ALS Registry (Aug. 2005)
• Studies Examine Genetic and Environmental Factors (July 2005)
• Long-Ago Residence on Guam Is Likely ALS Risk Factor (July 2005)
• No Correlations Found in Corn Belt Study (May 2005)
• Vitamin E, Military Service May Affect ALS Risk (April 2005)
• ALS Epidemiology Study Under Way (April 2005)
• Physical Activity Affects ALS Onset But Not Risk (Feb.-Mar. 2005)
• Gulf War Report Available Online (Jan. 2005)
• Military Service Is Apparent ALS Risk Factor (June 2004)
• Smoking Is Likely ALS Risk Factor (April 2004)
• Studies Show . . .Part 4 in a series; Questions, Common Sense Help Dissect Study Findings (Jan. 2004)
• Studies Show . . . Part 3 in a series; It's Different — But Is It 'Significant'? (Dec. 2003)
• Studies Show . . . Part 2 in a series; Cluster or Clutter? (Nov. 2003)
• Gulf War Vets More Likely to Get ALS (Oct. 2003)
• Studies Show ... (Oct. 2003)
• Disappointed With Kelly AFB Study (April 2003)
• Online Government Site Compiles Gulf War-Related Research (August 2002)
• 'Living With ALS' Study Extended (Oct. 2003)
• Narcotics, NSAIDS Might Affect ALS Risk (May 2003)
• 'Corn Belt' Study Expands Across United States (Jan. 2003)
• No ALS 'Cluster' Found at Kelly Air Force Base (December 2002)
• VA Studies Show ALS Link to Gulf War (December 2002)
• Insecticide Exposure in Corn Belt Under Study (Oct. 2002)
• New Study Explores Connection Between Athletics and ALS (June 2002)
• Bats and Nuts Yield Environmental Clue to ALS on Guam (May 2002)
• Unlocking the Mysteries of Guamanian ALS (Feb. 2002)
• Gulf War Vets Have Higher ALS Risk (December 2001)
• Texas ALS Cluster Could Be 'Incredibly Important,' Experts Say (December 2000)
• Many With ALS Live Longer Than Books Say (June 2000)
• Government to Explore Potential Link Between ALS and Gulf War (April 2000)
• Genetic Predisposition to Gulf War Syndrome Found (August 1999)
• Is There a Gulf War Connection to ALS? (April 1999)

Exercise

• Mouse Studies Say Exercise, Hormone Levels May Influence ALS Course (Nov. 2003)
• Exercises to Do on the Run: Simple Ways for Caregivers to Resist Injury (Oct. 2003)
• Exercise Beneficial to Mice with ALS (July 2003)
• Exercise Has Many Benefits for People With ALS (October 2002)

General

• Stimulating the Diaphragm May Have Merit After All (Jan. 2007)
• Device Allows Thought Control of Computer (Nov.-Dec. 2006)
• Brain-Computer Interfaces: Is Deeper Better? (Sept. 2006)
• Treating Non-Neuronal Cells May Be Good Option in ALS (Sept. 2006)
• 'Detox' Enzyme DNA Links Genes, Environment, ALS (Aug. 2006)
• ALS Community Exchanges Ideas at AAN Meeting (June-July 2006)
• Cognitive Impairment Found in 12 of 20 With ALS (May 2006)
• Spinal Fluid Protein Levels Useful in ALS Diagnosis (April 2006)
• Canadian Group Recreates Cellular Neighborhood (Dec. 2005)
• Low SMN Levels Increase ALS Risk and Severity (Oct. - Nov. 2005)
• Arimoclomol May Combat Misfolded Proteins (August 2005)
• Probing Nogo, High and Low (June 2005)
• New Drug Class Targets Cell Death (May 2005)
• Spinal Fluid Changes Appear Specific to ALS (Jan. 2004)
• How Motor Neurons Die (Nov. 2002)
• Bile Acid's Nicer Side (Sept. 2002)
• Better Care Needed at End of Life (Sept. 2002)
• What Causes ALS? (June 2001)
• Protein Clumps May Be Guilty in ALS (June 2001)
• Theory May Brighten Outlook for Treating Late Stages (August 2000)
• NINDS Director Advocates Combined Approach in ALS Research (June 2000)
• Why Motor Neurons Die: Putting the Pieces Together (December 1999)
• Multiple Problems May Cause Motor Neurons to Die (December 1999)
• Study Shows Adults Can Make New Brain Cells (December 1998)

Genetics/Gene Therapy

• Nonviral Gene Delivery Comes of Age (Jan. 2007)
• Genome-Wide Scans Provide Scientists First Clues (Nov.-Dec. 2006)
• Antisense Reduces SOD1, Prolongs Survival in Rats (Sept. 2006)
• 'Detox' Enzyme DNA Links Genes, Environment, ALS (Aug. 2006)
• ALS With Dementia Linked to Chromosome 9 (May 2006)
• Angiogenin Mutations Liklely Boost ALS Susceptibility (April 2006)
• Gene 'Flavor' Differences Likely to Provide Valuable Data (April 2006)
• Neurodegeneration Appears Tied to Molecular Motor Breakdowns (March 2006)
• Wobbler Mouse Gene ID May Unlock New Doors (March 2006)
• How Do SOD1 Mutations Kill Nerve Cells? (Feb. 2006)
• Large-Scale ALS Factos Study Enters Phase 2 (Jan. 2006)
• Spastin Gene Implicated in Juvenile-Onset ALS (Sept. 2005)
• Genetic Background Delays ALS Onset in Mice (August 2005)
• What Can (and Can't) We Learn From the SOD1 Mouse? (July 2005)
• Researchers Block SOD1 Protein in ALS Mice (June 2005)
• Emory Center to Study Familial ALS (May 2005)
• Hairpin RNA Keeps SOD1 Away (May 2005)
• Group IDs SOD1 Blockers (May 2005)
• Researchers Target SOD1-Linked Familial ALS (May 2005)
• Gene Therapy for ALS — Where Are We Now? (April 2005)
• Iron Overload Gene May Be Risk Factor (December 2004)
• Cellular Transport Protein Implicated (November 2004)
• Peripherin Gene Implicated in ALS (Aug./Sept. 2004)
• Patriarch's Energy and Curiosity Aid Gene Search (May 2004)
• Gene Found for Early-Onset ALS (May 2004)
• German Researchers Find No ALS Connection in 'Detox' Genes (Oct. 2003)
• Chromosome 16 Finding Goes Beyond the Obvious (Oct. 2003)
• New ALS Gene Mapped to Chromosome 16 (Sept. 2003)
• Genetics and ALS (Genetic test) (July 2003)
• Abnormal Chromosomes Might Be ALS Risk Factors (June 2003)
• Researchers at Neurology Meeting Explore SOD1, New Drugs, Stem Cells (May 2003)
• Move Over, SOD1... (April 2003)
• Gene Behind pmn May Hold Clues to ALS (Jan. 2003)
• Researchers Seek Families With 'ALS Plus' (Sept. 2002)
• Evidence Mounts for Minocycline in ALS, With Caution (June 2002)
• Gene Therapy for ALS A Step Closer to Reality (May 2002)
• Rats With ALS (Dec. 2001)
• New Genes (Dec. 2001)
• Synthetic Gene (Dec. 2001)
• Second ALS Gene Discovered (October 2001)
• ALS Gene Hunt Increases in Speed and Scope (August 2001)
• New Gene Implicated in Familial ALS (June 2001)
• Researcher Explores Genetic Influences on ALS Risk (December 2000)
• MDA Researchers Tracking Down New ALS Gene (October 2000)
• Old Enemy Becomes New Ally in Gene Therapy (October 2000)
• Genetic Predisposition to Gulf War Syndrome Found (August 1999)
• Gene Therapy for ALS? (August 1999)
• Researchers Report Mutant SOD1 Protein Activates Glutamate Transporters (June 1999)
• New Insights Into Motor Neuron Deaths in SOD1-Linked ALS (February 1999)
• New Studies of Genetic Factors in Nonfamilial ALS (February 1999)
• Mattingly Family Featured in Life Magazine (October 1998)
• New Leads in Sporadic ALS (June 1998)
• Gene Mapped for Early-Onset, Slowly Progressive Form of ALS (April 1998)
• Genetic Factors Influence Chance of ALS (August 1997)
• Genetic Test for SOD1-Linked ALS (August 1997)
• SOD1 Mutations Linked to Disease Duration (March 1997)

Glutamate

• New Compound Boosts Glutamate Transport (May 2006)
• Ceftriaxone Helps Mice (Feb.-Mar. 2005)
• Glutamate Transporters — an Untapped Resource? (October 2004)
• Studies Strengthen Role of Glutamate, Abnormal RNA (April 2004)
• New Anti-Glutamate Drugs (May 2003)
• Neurons and Glia Engaged in Vicious Cycle? (May 2003)
• Study of ALS Rat Supports Glutamate Toxicity Idea (Feb. 2002)
• Glutamate Transporter Could Be Key to Better Drugs (December 2001)
• Researchers Report Mutant SOD1 Protein Activates Glutamate Transporters (June 1999)
• What About MSG? (August 1997)
• Study Supports Glutamate 'Poisoning' in ALS (December 1996)

Immune System

• Cyclosporine Revisited (Feb./Mar. 2005)
• Immune System Chemical (Dec. 2001)

Neurotrophic (Growth) Factors

• VEGF: Where Do We Go From Here? (Oct. 2006)
• No VEGF Variants Found in North American ALS Patients (Oct. 2006)
• MDA Seeks to Move Gene Therapy to Clinical Trials (Oct. - Nov. 2005)
• IGF1 With Exercise Improves Survival, Function in Mice (June 2005)
• VEGF Protein Infusion Helps Rats With ALS (Jan. 2005)
• VEGF Protein Helps ALS-Affected Mice (November 2004)
• Support for VEGF Treatment Grows (July 2004)
• VEGF Deficiency Implicated in Second Disease (April 2004)
• Lab Mice Benefit From IGF-1 Gene Transfer (Sept. 2003)
• VEGF Deficiency Increases ALS Risk (Aug. 2003)
• A New and Improved Neurotrophic Factor? (Sept. 2002)
• BDNF Fails to Change Course of ALS (February 2001)
• Pilot Study of BDNF Complete (June 2000)
• Amgen Drops GDNF Program, Continues BDNF Study (June 1999)
• Getting There: More Than Half the Battle in Treating CNS Disease: Biotech Companies, Universities Team Up to Bypass Blood-Brain Barrier (June 1997)
• Direct Spinal Fluid Delivery of CNTF Shows Promise (July 1996)

Stem Cells

• Human Stem Cells Benefit Rats With ALS (Nov.-Dec. 2006)
• Stem Cells Come From New Sources (Oct. 2006)
• Mouse Stem Cells Treat Paralysis in Rats (Aug. 2006)
• Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cells to Be Tested (Jan. 2006)
• Are We There Yet? Stem Cell Therapies for ALS (Dec. 2005)
• Beijing Report: Fetal Cells Fail to Stop ALS (Oct. - Nov. 2005)
• Embryonic Stem Cells Can Become Motor Neurons (April 2005)
• EmCell Investigation Shows Poor Results (November 2004)
• Stem Cells Help Regrow Nerves in Rats (Jan. 2004)
• Stem Cells May Fuse With Some Brain Cells (Dec. 2003)
• Stem Cells Safely Injected in Italy (Dec. 2003)
• Human Umbilical Cord Blood Cells Help Mice With ALS (Sept. 2003)
• Drugs, Stem Cells, Trial Designs, National Consortium Occupy ALS Experts at June Meeting (July 2003)
• Stem Cells Might Help in Unexpected Way (Aug. 2003)
• Researchers at Neurology Meeting Explore SOD1, New Drugs, Stem Cells (May 2003)
• Neuronal Stem Cells Found in Blood (March 2003)
• From Bone Marrow to Brain (Feb. 2003)
• MDA Seeks Researchers to Conduct Cord Blood Trial (Jan. 2003)
• Scientists Debate Therapeutic Potential of Bone Marrow Stem Cells (Oct. 2002)
• Scientists Find Way to Turn Stem Cells Into Motor Neurons (Sept. 2002)
• Stem Cell Research Stymied by Red Tape and Controversy (Sept. 2002)
• Baylor Center Director Tries Transplanting Bone Marrow in ALS (Sept. 2002)
• Potent Stem Cells Found in Bone Marrow (July 2002)
• Cord Blood: Banking on a Cure (July 2002)
• Ukrainian Clinic 'Stem Cell Treatment' Probed (July 2002)
• Stem Cell Therapy Research Taking Several Paths (December 2001)
• Stem Cell Research Shows Continued Promise — and Some Surprises (August 2001)

Stress

• ALS Patients and Caregivers Overrate One Another's Stress (July 2004)
• Writing About Events May Lower Caregiver Stress (Feb. 2004)
• Reducing Caregiver Stress May Help Loved One's Depression (Feb. 2003)
• Stress and ALS (October 2001)

Ventilation/Assistive Devices

• Oscillation Vest Fails to Slow Respiratory Decline (Oct. 2006)
• Noninvasive Ventilation Prolongs Life in ALS (Oct. 2006)
• Nutrition and Respiratory Support Investigated (June-July 2006)
• NIV Improves Quality of Life, Longevity (May 2006)
• Who Tolerates Noninvasive Ventilation? (Feb. 2006)
• Does Diaphragm Stimulation Work in ALS? (Sept. 2005)
• Study of NIPPV and Nutrition Under Way (August 2005)
• Diaphragm Stimulation Study Open in Cleveland (December 2004)
• Airway Clearance Vest Under Study in ALS (Oct. 2003)
• A Tale of Two Vent Choices (Aug. 2003)
• Small Study Says No Harm, Much Benefit Comes With NIV (Aug. 2003)
• Center Director to Be Part of Large ALS Respiratory Study (March 2003)
• Noninvasive Ventilation Prolongs Life If Used Right, MDA Clinic Director Says (September 2002)
• Studies Question Timing of Ventilation, Feeding Tubes (April 2002)

Viruses

• Are Viruses a Trigger for ALS? (August 2005)
• Researchers Associate Enzyme With ALS (Feb.-Mar. 2005)
• No Enteroviruses Found in ALS-Affected Tissue (June 2004)
• HIV Link Could Lead to Anti-viral Therapy for ALS (October 2001)
• The ALS/Virus Connection (Feb. 2000)
• AIDS Virus May Help Cross Blood-Brain Barrier (October 1999)

Research Process

• What Can (and Can't) We Learn From the SOD1 Mouse? (July 2005)
• Face-off on Multidrug Trials (January 2005)
• Studies Show . . .Part 4 in a series; Questions, Common Sense Help Dissect Study Findings (Jan. 2004)
• Studies Show . . . Part 3 in a series; It's Different — But Is It 'Significant'? (Dec. 2003)
• Studies Show . . . Part 2 in a series; Cluster or Clutter? (Nov. 2003)
• Studies Show ... (Oct. 2003)
• Disappointed With Kelly AFB Study (April 2003)
• Online Government Site Compiles Gulf War-Related Research (August 2002)
• Trials Help Scientists Take Small Steps to Big Goals, New Mexico Director Says (August 2002)
• How to Donate Tissue for Research (August 1997)

Major research articles

• ALS Research — The Beat Goes On (May 2005)
• Gene Therapy for ALS — Where Are We Now? (April 2005)
• ALS Research — Where We've Been, Where We Are Now (December 2004)
• Glutamate Transporters — an Untapped Resource? (October 2004)
• Support for VEGF Treatment Grows (July 2004)
• Gene Found for Early-Onset ALS (May 2004)
• Studies Strengthen Role of Glutamate, Abnormal RNA (April 2004)
• New Studies Support Roles of Inflammation, Oxidative Stress in ALS (March 2004)
• Naturally Speaking: Voice Synthesis Study Advances (Feb. 2004)
• Award-Winning MDA Grantee Probes Brain Connections (Dec. 2003)
• Motor Neuron Neighbors Help Fight ALS (Nov. 2003)
• Gulf War Vets More Likely to Get ALS (Oct. 2003)
• New ALS Gene Mapped to Chromosome 16 (Sept. 2003)
• VEGF Deficiency Increases ALS Risk (Aug. 2003)
• Abnormal Chromosomes Might Be ALS Risk Factors (June 2003)
• 'Supply Line' Defects Linked to ALS-Like Disease in Mice (June 2003)
• MS Drug Shows Promise Against ALS (May 2003)
• Defects in Cell 'Supply Line' Might Be Key, MDA Researchers Find (April 2003)
• Cognitive Deficits in ALS Are Usually Subtle (March 2003)
• MDA Seeks Researchers to Conduct Cord Blood Trial (Jan. 2003)
• Topiramate Shows No Benefit in ALS (Jan. 2003)
• 'Corn Belt' Study Expands Across United States (Jan. 2003)
• Gene Behind pmn May Hold Clues to ALS (Jan. 2003)
• Evidence Mounts for Minocycline in ALS, With Caution (June 2002)
• New Study Explores Connection Between Athletics and ALS (June 2002)
• Botulinum Toxin, Radiotherapy Show Promise in Controlling Saliva (June 2002)
• Bats and Nuts Yield Environmental Clue to ALS on Guam (May 2002)
• Stem Cell Therapy Research Taking Several Paths (December 2001)
• Second ALS Gene Discovered (October 2001)
• HIV Link Could Lead to Anti-viral Therapy for ALS (October 2001)
• ALS Gene Hunt Increases in Speed and Scope (August 2001)
• Anti-Arthritic to Be Tested Against ALS (April 2001)
• Contemplating the Unthinkable: Rewiring the Nervous System (April 2000)
• Genetic Predisposition to Gulf War Syndrome Found (August 1999)
• Gene Mapped for Early-Onset, Slowly Progressive Form of ALS (April 1998)

MDA research program

• Welcome to a New Era (Jan. 2007)
• Genome-Wide Search Hits Pay Dirt (Jan. 2007)
• 'Detox' Enzyme DNA Links Genes, Environment, ALS (Aug. 2006)
• Drugs, Stem Cells, Trial Designs, National Consortium Occupy ALS Experts at June Meeting (July 2003)
• Clinical Trials Are Focus of MDA ALS Conference (June 2003)
• MDA Conference to Explore Clinical Trial Design (March 2003)
• 'Drug Cocktail' Shown Doubly Effective Against ALS in Mice (Feb. 2003)
• Doctors Discuss ALS Treatment Trends at MDA Gathering (December 2002)
• Gene Therapy for ALS A Step Closer to Reality (May 2002)
• Gulf War Vets Have Higher ALS Risk (December 2001)
• Glutamate Transporter Could Be Key to Better Drugs (December 2001)
• Solving the SOD1 Puzzle (February 2001)
• Researcher Explores Genetic Influences on ALS Risk (December 2000)
• MDA Researchers Tracking Down New ALS Gene (October 2000)
• Cell Death Blockers Join Growing Arsenal Against ALS (April 2000)
• MDA Grantee Has High-Speed Plan for Finding ALS Therapies (August 1999)
• Researchers Report Mutant SOD1 Protein Activates Glutamate Transporters (June 1999)
• New Insights Into Motor Neuron Deaths in SOD1-Linked ALS (February 1999)
• Protein "Chaperones" May Be One Key to Late Onset in ALS (February 1999)
• New Mechanism May Explain Sporadic ALS Cases (April 1998)
• Profile of a Motor Neuron (February 1998)
• MDA Researchers Slow, Postpone Cell Death in Mice With ALS (August 1997)
• MDA Grantee Urges Caution on ALS "Treatments" in News Reports (March 1997)
• ALS Research Grants Funded by MDA (March 1997)
• Study Supports Glutamate 'Poisoning' in ALS (December 1996)
• New Chemicals to Speed Research (December 1996)
• MDA/MDAC Group Prepares for Combination ALS Drug Trials (June 1996)
• Experts Meet on Combination Trials (April 1996)
• New Research Sheds Light on SOD1 Mutation (February 1996)
• MDA Researcher's Mouse Shows Value of Drugs (February 1996)
• MDA, Amgen Discuss ALS Drug Trials (February 1996)
• MDA Lays Groundwork for Combination Drug Trials (January 1996)
• MDA Researchers Speak at ALS Colloquium (January 1996)
• MDA Clinics, Patients Play Role in Drug Development (January 1996)
• MDA Seeks More ALS Genes (January 1996)

Return to stories by topics list.

Medical & Health Care

Diagnosis/Prognosis

• Harvard Doctors Study Noninvasive EMG (October 2004)
• Is It Really ALS? (April 2003)
• ALS Doesn't Masquerade As Lyme Disease, Experts Say (March 2003)
• ALS Community Protests Kelly AFB Findings (Feb. 2003)
• New Study Explores Connection Between Athletics and ALS (June 2002)
• BDNF Fails to Change Course of ALS (February 2001)
• Many With ALS Live Longer Than Books Say (June 2000)
• Is There a Gulf War Connection to ALS? (April 1999)
• Muscle and Nerve Biopsy in Diagnosis of ALS (February 1999)
• Mistaken Diagnosis? ALS and SBMA Can Be Confused (August 1997)
• Genetic Test for SOD1-Linked ALS (August 1997)
• SOD1 Mutations Linked to Disease Duration (March 1997)
• EMGs and Diagnosis (June 1996)

Therapies & medications

• VEGF: Where Do We Go From Here? (Oct. 2006)
• Making the Switch (Sept. 2006)
• Equipment Corner: Gastrostomy Tubes (Sept. 2006)
• It's Still Eating (Sept. 2006)
• Keep Calories Coming, Expert Says (Sept. 2006)
• PBA Symptoms No Laughing Matter (March 2006)
• MDA Launches Program of ALS Translational Research (Feb. 2006)
• Jeanine Schierbecker: Physical Therapist (Dec. 2005)
• A Tale of Two Vent Choices (Aug. 2003)
• Small Study Says No Harm, Much Benefit Comes With NIV (Aug. 2003)
• Speaking of Speaking (Aug. 2003)
• Drugs, Stem Cells, Trial Designs, National Consortium Occupy ALS Experts at June Meeting (July 2003)
• MS Drug Shows Promise Against ALS (May 2003)
• Infection Derails Test of 'Brain Communicator' in Activist Jayne (March 2003)
• Topiramate Shows No Benefit in ALS (Jan. 2003)
• Doctors Discuss ALS Treatment Trends at MDA Gathering (December 2002)
• Protection and Prevention Are Keys to Comfortable Skin (December 2002)
• Exercise Has Many Benefits for People With ALS (October 2002)
• Home Rehabilitation Services: OT/PT Evaluation by Anne C. Clark, M.S., P.T. (October 2002)
• Cord Blood: Banking on a Cure (July 2002)
• Ukrainian Clinic 'Stem Cell Treatment' Probed (July 2002)
• Botulinum Toxin, Radiotherapy Show Promise in Controlling Saliva (June 2002)
• Rilutek Safe but Weak; Better Drugs May Be on the Way (May 2002)
• Respiratory Issues in ALS (February 2002)
• Rilutek Assistance (February 2002)
• Managing Saliva in ALS (October 2001)
• HIV Link Could Lead to Anti-viral Therapy for ALS (October 2001)
• Practice Parameters Set Treatment Guidelines (August 2001)
• Vitamin E Might Help a Little (August 2001)
• First Look Suggests Some Benefit From CoQ10 (June 2001)
• Ventilation Story Draws Readers Responses (June 2001)
• Noninvasive Ventilation Can't Sustain Life Indefinitely in ALS (April 2001)
• Anti-Arthritic to Be Tested Against ALS (April 2001)
• Creatine Risks Noted by French Agency (February 2001)
• Researcher Explores Genetic Influences on ALS Risk (December 2000)
• Alcohol and Anti-Arthritics: New Treatments, or Shots in the Dark? (December 2000)
• Old Enemy Becomes New Ally in Gene Therapy (October 2000)
• No Merit to Purported Benefits of Snake Venom (October 2000)
• Gene Therapy for ALS (October 2000)
• What Everyone With ALS Should Know About Breathing (August 2000)
• Cell Death Blockers Join Growing Arsenal Against ALS (April 2000)
• Maintaining Function, Modifying Environment are Key in ALS Physical Therapy Programs (April 2000)
• Drug Update (February 2000)
• Feeding Tubes Are Nothing to Fear, Says MDA Clinic Director (October 1999)
• Flu Shots Important for ALS Patients (October 1999)
• MDA Grantee Has High-Speed Plan for Finding ALS Therapies (August 1999)
• What Ever Happened to Myotrophin? (August 1999)
• Gene Therapy for ALS? (August 1999)
• Making the Most of Your MDA Clinic Experience -- Have You Tried Occupational Therapy? (August 1999)
• Blood Tests to Check Liver Urged for Those on Riluzole (June 1999)
• MDA-Associated Doctors Respond to Riluzole Liver Issues (June 1999)
• Amgen Drops GDNF Program, Continues BDNF Study (June 1999)
• Use Caution With Creatine (June 1999)
• Supplement Found Beneficial in ALS (April 1999)
• New Product May Help Control Crying, Laughing in ALS (April 1999)
• Drugs for ALS -- Where Are We Now? (February 1999)
• ALS — Not Curable, But Treatable (December 1998)
• Calcium-Blocking Compounds From Vitamin D May Become New Treatment (October 1998)
• Myotrophin in Limbo But Not Yet Gone (October 1998)
• Myotrophin 'Potentially Approvable': Companies in Talks With FDA (July 1998)
• Companies: BDNF in Spinal Fluid Safe (July 1998)
• Hearing on Myotrophin Canceled: FDA Clock Runs Out May 11 (April 1998)
• Riluzole Report Card (February 1998)
• Myotrophin Decision Stalled Again (November 1997)
• FDA Faces Onslaught After Myotrophin Hearing (August 1997)
• New Drugs Ahead? (June 1997)
• FDA Panel Rejects Myotrophin (June 1997)
• MDA Grantee Urges Caution on ALS "Treatments" in News Reports (March 1997)
• BDNF Fails One Test, Another in the Works (March 1997)
• Spinal Fluid Delivery of CNTF Gets Mixed Results (March 1997)
• Journal Article Tells More About Rilutek Trials (June 1996)
• Update on Growth Factors (April 1996)
• Rilutek Hits Pharmacies (January 1996)

Medical procedures

• Stay in Control by Making Advance Directives (April 2004)
• Genetics and ALS (Genetic test) (July 2003)
• Patient Care Guidelines on the Web (February 2000)

MDA ALS Centers/Clinics

• How a Nurse Practitioner Fits Into the Health Care Puzzle (Nov.-Dec. 2006)
• Kessenich Golf Tourney Drives for ALS (Aug. 2006)
• MDA Opens 37th ALS Center (June-July 2006)
• MDA Opens 36th ALS Center (March 2006)
• Jeanine Schierbecker: Physical Therapist (Dec. 2005)
• Couple Battling ALS Starts Over in Katrina's Wake (Oct. - Nov. 2005)
• MDA Opens 35th ALS Center (Sept. 2005)
• New York Center Supplies Answers, Hope (October 2004)
• Nurse of the Year Urges: Respect Diversity in ALS Care (June 2004)
• St. Louis Center Director Optimistic: Has Personal Experience of ALS (Jan. 2004)
• Support, Empowerment Keys to Social Worker's Role at MDA/ALS Center (June 2003)
• Finding Alternatives at All Stages — Talking with ALS Center Director Jeffrey Rosenfeld (Jan. 2003)
• Getting Aggressive About Care — Talking With ALS Center Co-Director Greg Carter (October 2002)
• Noninvasive Ventilation Prolongs Life If Used Right, MDA Clinic Director Says (September 2002)
• Trials Help Scientists Take Small Steps to Big Goals, New Mexico Director Says (August 2002)
• Wisconsin ALS Expert Pursuing Viruses, Tamoxifen & Gulf War Exposure (February 2002)
• People With ALS Win With Multidisciplinary Team Approach (December 2001)
• When Mouth and Throat Muscle Weaken: Talking With Jeff Edmiaston, Speech-Language Pathologist (February 2001)
• Texas ALS Cluster Could Be 'Incredibly Important,' Experts Say (December 2000)
• Targeted Research, Thorough Patient Care Goals of New ALS Center Director (October 2000)
• Making the Most of Your MDA Clinic Experience -- Have You Tried Occupational Therapy? (August 1999)
• Clinic and ALS Center Named for Vicki Appel (February 1998)
• Brown Speaks at Dedication of New ALS Center (March 1997)
• Publication on Neck Weakness Available (December 1996)

Health insurance and Costs

• Insurance Claims: Don't Take 'No' for an Answer (April 2006)

General health care

• Respiratory Care in ALS (Nov.-Dec. 2006)
• More on Leg Swelling (March 2004)
• Don't Let Leg Swelling Go Untreated (February 2004)
• Regaining the Simple Pleasure of Regularity (September 2003)
• Flu Shots Important for ALS Patients (October 1999)

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Relationships & Family

Dating & friendship