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Review Article

Survey of ALS‐associated factors potentially promoting Ca2+ overload of motor neurons

Pages 260-265 | Received 24 Jan 2007, Accepted 11 Jun 2007, Published online: 10 Jul 2009
 

Abstract

The deleterious consequences of Ca2+ overload are thought to be a probable cause of motoneuronal death in ALS, although the overloading mechanism is currently unclear. In this paper some ALS‐linked factors are analysed with regard to their influence on Ca2+ influx into neurons. Intensive cortex activity can render motor neurons susceptible to stimulation of calcium‐permeable glutamate NMDA‐receptors; increase in CSF concentrations of glutamate, glycine, and norepinephrine supposedly can intensify these receptors' activity. Elevated CSF levels of GABA and reduced levels of serotonin can promote Ca2+ influx through glutamate AMPA‐receptors and voltage‐gated channels of L‐, N‐, and P‐type. Additionally, brain ischaemia can contribute to Ca2+ overload of motor neurons. Thus, ALS is characterized by the unique combination of factors potentially able to promote the overload of motor neurons with calcium.

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