Fact 3. Absence of Known Cause: The Mysterious ALS Origins
Understanding the origins of any disease is a critical step in devising effective treatments, but ALS poses an enigma. In most cases, ALS strikes seemingly at random, with no discernible cause. This type of ALS is known as sporadic ALS, which accounts for about 90 to 95 percent of all ALS cases.
Investigations into the origins of sporadic ALS have proposed several potential contributing factors, including environmental toxins, physical trauma, and lifestyle habits such as smoking. Nevertheless, these links are still theoretical and need further robust evidence to substantiate them. Researchers are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to decipher the enigma that is sporadic ALS, as understanding its origins holds the key to its prevention and cure.
In contrast, the remaining 5 to 10 percent of ALS cases are known as familial ALS, caused by genetic mutations inherited from parents. The specific gene mutations linked to familial ALS are quite varied, with more than 30 different mutations identified so far.
The most common of these are mutations in the C9ORF72, SOD1, and TARDBP genes. This genetic link allows for predictive genetic testing in families with a history of ALS, offering a chance for early detection and intervention. (3)
