ALSresistant

ALSresistant is a term used in neuroscience and biomedical research to describe cells, organisms, or individuals that show reduced vulnerability to the neurodegenerative processes associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It is typically applied in experimental contexts to denote genetic, molecular, or pharmacological factors that lessen motor neuron degeneration in ALS models or extend the survival of affected cells.

Possible mechanisms associated with ALSresistant phenotypes include enhanced proteostasis and protein quality control, robust mitochondrial function, efficient autophagy, and reduced aggregation of ALS-associated proteins such as TDP-43 or SOD1. Other contributing factors may be improved RNA processing, strengthened axonal transport, and tempered neuroinflammation. Because ALS is heterogeneous, resistance may arise from a combination of genetic modifiers, cellular stress responses, and environmental influences.

Research approaches that use the concept of ALSresistant include induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models derived from ALS patients, transgenic or toxin-based animal models, and high-throughput screening for protective genes or compounds. Identified modifiers or therapies are evaluated for their ability to reproduce resistant cellular phenotypes, slow disease progression, or protect motor neurons under ALS-like stress.

Limitations include the fact that ALSresistance is not a clinically established phenotype. Observations in cellular or animal models do not always translate to humans, and what appears protective in one model may not be universally effective. The term reflects a research focus on protective mechanisms rather than a diagnosis, and it does not imply complete immunity to ALS.

See also: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, neuroprotection, genetic modifiers, iPSC models.