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Finding a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)-also known as Lou Gehrig's disease-has been a frustrating and elusive quest. Even after decades of research, the biological roots of ALS are only partially understood. Now a new form of treatment offers fresh hope.

Trophos, a company based in Marseilles, France, has discovered a drug compound that appears to protect neurons from the effects of ALS, a rapidly debilitating degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord. These effects lead to muscle atrophy and, ultimately, complete loss of motor control. The company's researchers have found that a compound named olesoxime promotes survival and regeneration of neurons deprived of neurotrophic factors-proteins essential for maintaining healthy neurons. This deprivation is similar to what occurs in the neurons of ALS patients.

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12y ago

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