ALS - Part 1 - Types of ALS

  Types of ALS

There are three types of ALS: sporadic, familial, and Guamanian (Segala).  The sporadic type is the most common form. The familial or genetic form of ALS occurs in only 5 to 10% of the  cases.  A fifth of the patients with the familial form are deficient in an enzyme called Superoxide Dismutase-1 (SOD-1) which is used in the body to scavenge unstable free radical  molecules.  In people with this genetic defect, the free radicals cause oxidative damage to nerve cells, ultimately destroying them (LEF Protocol for ALS).  There are seven genes that currently have been identified with the various familial versions of ALS (McCarthy).  Major work is taking place in the scientific community to sequence and
identify the genes that may be causing people to develop ALS. As each of these genetic defects is researched, their differing mechanisms provide insight into the total picture of how ALS occurs and could point to a common underlying mechanism for the disease as a whole (McCarthy).

Patients with “Sporadic” ALS also show signs of oxidative damage like abnormal protein aggregation, increased levels of calcium between cells, and mitochondrial  injury(LEF Protocol for ALS).  Segala asserts that antioxidants, such as Glutathione, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Alpha-lipoic acid are helpful in
protecting neurons from oxidative damage (Segala). Scientists speculate that many people who develop ALS have a genetic predisposition that interacts with environmental variables in the patient’s life
(McCarthy). 

  Guamanian Discussion

In the 20th century, high numbers of people with ALS were observed in Guam, the Kii Peninsula of Japan, and Papua New Guinea.  The rates have been coming down now that there has been a westernization of the region and reduced dependence on  their traditional foods.  It is now thought that the high incidence of ALS may have been due to specific dietary toxins like aluminum and/or cycasin (McCarthy).This provides support for the theory of treating ALS with dietary and nutritional therapies and detoxification.

This paper is in honor of Warren Schaeffer, an exceptional
person, adventurous being and a first-class gentleman.