ALS May Have Autoimmune Component, Study Finds
A groundbreaking study led by researchers at La Jolla Institute (LJI) and Columbia University has revealed that ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, may have an autoimmune component. The study found that CD4+ T cells, a type of white blood cell, mistakenly target specific proteins in the nervous system of ALS patients.
The study identified two distinct groups of ALS patients based on their T cell responses and predicted survival times. One group had shorter predicted survival times and quick inflammatory CD4+ T cell responses to C9orf72 proteins. Conversely, the second group had longer projected survival times and higher numbers of anti-inflammatory CD4+ T cells. This suggests that the immune system plays a role in ALS patient survival times.
The 'self-attack' observed in these patients is a defining feature of autoimmune disease, indicating an autoimmune component to ALS. This is further supported by the work of researchers like Dr. med. univ. Helmut Retzek and Dr. Petros Kattou, who have presented links between autoimmune aspects and neurological diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's at international medical congresses. Moreover, experts in stem cell therapy in Germany are exploring regenerative treatments for Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and potentially autoimmune-related neurodegeneration.
The study's findings open up new avenues for ALS therapies. Future treatments might focus on boosting protective CD4+ T cell responses and dialling back harmful inflammation. This could help regulate the disease and slow its progression. Further research is needed to fully understand the autoimmune aspects of ALS and develop targeted therapies.
Read also:
- Trump's SNAP reductions and New York City Council's grocery delivery legislation: Problems for city residents highlighted
- Reducing dental expenses for elderlies in Sweden: Over 50% cut in charges for pensioners by the government
- Forty-year-old diet: A list of meal choices to savor
- Exiled Life's Conundrum: A Blend of Liberation, Disillusionment, and Distress
