Here are five highlights:
1. The model replicates how the diseases impacts nerve cells and pathways in the brain and spinal cord.
2. Developed for four years, the mouse model includes a C9orf72 gene mutation, which is the most common genetic cause of ALS.
3. The mouse model is the first to zone in on the C9orf72 gene and mimic the disease characteristics.
4. The researchers reported the model will allow scientists to analyze why the same genetic mutation results in paralysis for some patients and cognitive issues in other patients.
5. The C9orf72 gene puts out at least eight mutant products, which researchers will be able to individually analyze in the model.
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