Center for ALS Research and Therapy

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive disease that attacks the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles. When motor neurons are destroyed, the brain can no longer communicate with muscles throughout the body. As a result, muscles become paralyzed.

The Center for ALS Research and Therapy at UC San Diego Neurological Institute pairs leading ALS researchers with the region’s strongest clinical treatment program. The center collaborates with specialists in:

• Neurology
• Physical Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Speech Therapy
• Social Work
• Orthotist
• Pulmonology
• Gastroenterology
• Psychiatry/Psychology

We provide individualized medical and support services to those living with ALS and other motor neuron disorders. 

Research

Medical scientists at the Center for ALS Research and Therapy at UC San Diego Health System, led by Don Cleveland, PhD, and John Ravits, MD, are international leaders in ALS research. The research team is developing a cell replacement therapy, and a gene silencing therapy for ALS. We are slowing the progression of ALS with a drug already approved by the FDA for treating blood poisoning, among other projects. Read about current research projects at the ALS Center. 

Links

ALS Association
National health organization dedicated to research, patient and community services, public education, and advocacy for those living with ALS.

Project ALS
Raises funds for ALS research, including UC San Diego ALS Center collaborations. ProjectALS.org has short illustrative videos explaining ALS, gene therapy and the role of stem cell research.

Muscular Dystrophy Association – ALS Division
Nonprofit health agency combating neuromuscular diseases through research, medical and support services, and professional and public health education.

Ride for Life
A nonprofit that organizes annual events in which ALS patients ride their electric wheelchairs to raise funds for a research and to create awareness.