Attualità sulla patogenesi della sclerosi laterale amiotrofica

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by loss of motor neurons. Here we review the most recent findings related to the pathogenesis of the disease, with emphasis on genetic studies and mechanisms of neurotoxicity by free radicals and excitatory amino acids. The results of these studies provide relevant basis for therapeutics trials with neuroprotective drugs that have been shown to slow the progression of the disease.