2005 年 16 巻 1 号 p. 9-11
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characteristic of selective degeneration of the upper and lower motor neurons. The correct pathogenesis of this fatal disease is unknown. Several possible mechanism of motor neuron degeneration is postulated in ALS. In particular, gene mutation of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) is discovered in a part of familial ALS patients. The evidence suggests a major possibility that trace elements, such as Cu and Zn, may have toxic effects on motor neurons. We review shortly the relationship between several trace elements and ALS. We hope that neurotoxic studies of metals and other trace elements could contribute to further therapeutic potential and strategy in ALS.
