Story perspectives
New Research Links ALS to Autoimmune Response, Offers Hope
10/2/2025
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Story summary
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology and Columbia University researchers say ALS may be autoimmune.
- Immune cells attack the C9orf72 protein in neurons, triggering inflammation.
- About 5,000 Americans are diagnosed yearly, with mortality within 14–18 months.
- Two patient groups show rapid progression or longer survival linked to protective T cells.
- Future therapies may boost protective T cell responses to slow ALS.
