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Research Article

Environmental Toxicity in the Possible Etiology of Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Pages 311-320 | Published online: 13 Jul 2009
 

Abstract

Purpose: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease marked by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons. Research to date has identified a variety of potential causal elements (e.g. exposure to xenobiotic agents, oxidative stress) in the pathogenesis of this disease. Design: Non-interventional pilot study. Materials and Methods: Using eight subjects, the current study employed several measures that collectively would provide evidence of burden levels of xenobiotic agents, abnormal liver detoxication processes, and immune dysfunction. Results: In support of hypotheses, results suggested that both direct (i.e. exposure to toxic elements and liver dysfunction) and mediating (i.e. oxidative stress and autoimmunity) effects may contribute to the development and onset of sporadic motor neuron disease. Conclusions: The current study extends previous research by hypothesizing an interaction between toxic xenobiotics, free radical injury, autoimmune processes, and liver dysfunction. Implications and directions for further study are discussed.

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