ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects motor neurons and
leads to muscle weakness and atrophy. It is very difficult to diagnose
since a number of diseases mimic the symptoms of ALS. To date, no diagnostic exists
for ALS.
Through its work with the ALS Association
(initial
and
expanded
studies), Metabolon is pursuing a number of markers to distinguish people with ALS
from those with mimic symptoms. These markers are being incorporated into the ALStarT
diagnostic test.