Inflammation, ALS and the Central Nervous System
Cellular injury in any organ usually results in the immune system’s inflammatory cells becoming active. These cells respond to cell death processes, assist in clearing extracellular debris and provide chemicals that signal other cells— including neurons and astrocytes—in response to injury. Growing evidence suggests inflammation occurs in ALS patients’ brains and spinal cords. While scientists are unsure of the contribution of inflammation to cell death, several Center investigators have begun studying the process in ALS, hoping to understand its possible role.

A comprehensive review of some of the causes of ALS is available from two Center investigators, Dr. Donald Cleveland (Neuron 1999 (24):515-520) and Dr. Jean-Pierre Julien (Cell 2001 (104):581-591).