1. NERVEN BEWAHREN Foundation
  2. Our research
  3. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Bild Prof. Reilich

Prof. Dr. med. Peter Reilich, MA

Mitarbeiter

PD Dr. med. Florian Schöberl, MHBA

  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe, progressive disease of the motor nervous system.

  • For a specific genetic form of ALS (SOD1-associated ALS), there is now a highly effective gene-based therapy available with the agent Tofersen.

  • Further medical research is urgently needed for better treatment options for ALS patients.

In our specialist ALS outpatient clinic in two locations (Klinikum Großhadern and the Friedrich-Baur-Institute), we guarantee – in cooperation with the German Association for Patients affected by Muscle Diseases (DGM) – multiprofessional and holistic care over the whole course of the disease.

Your donation helps

Neuron

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent acquired disease of the motor nervous system, in which there is a premature, progressive decline of motor neuron cells in the motor cortex, the brainstem, and the spinal cord. This results in muscular weakness and a decrease in musculature, which lead to restrictions of motor function in daily life and thus to decreasing independence and an increasing need for help.

  • Electromyography (EMG) is the examination of choice to prove the death of nerve cells in the brainstem and spinal cord in the examined muscle.

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain can be used to prove the death of nerve cells in the motor cortex (motor band sign).
  • In addition to a careful examination, including exclusion of other causes of their symptoms, all ALS patients in our specialist ALS clinic receive comprehensive genetic diagnostics, including in the SOD1 gene, so that we can offer patients current therapeutic options, such as highly effective gene-based therapy with Tofersen.

EMG Welle

EMG example with positivesharp waves

MRT Sequenz

MRI: SWI sequence with the characteristic "Motor Band Sign"

  • In our specialist ALS outpatient clinic in two locations (Klinikum Großhadern and the Friedrich-Baur-Institute), we offer medical treatment based on state-of-the-art research, including the option to participate in current studies (e.g. LIPCAL-ALS-II).

  • At the Friedrich-Baur-Institute, the only such “special task force” for neuromuscular disorders in Germany, non-invasive ventilation (NIV) can be initiated in the clinic for patients with advanced ALS. Non-invasive ventilation is also one focus of our research.
  • Optimal care of ALS patients is only possible with a very good team. We therefore offer all our ALS patients and their families comprehensive psychosocial support and advice on medical aids in cooperation with the Bavarian branch of the German Association for Patients affected by Muscle Diseases (DGM) throughout the whole course of the disease.
  • As a center, we are involved regionally and nationally in established research and working groups, such as MND-NET, Münchner ALS-Allianz and Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy).

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Bank transfer

Use the bank details below to transfer your donation directly.

Recipient: LMU München KdöR - Stiftungen@LMU
IBAN: DE16 7002 0270 0015 6232 55
BIC: HYVEDEMMXXX
Bank: HypoVereinsbank München
Reason for transfer: "Nerven bewahren" Foundation

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