Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

These motor neurons control voluntary muscle movement, and as they degenerate, they lose the ability to send signals to muscles.

This leads to muscle weakness, atrophy, and eventually paralysis.

ALS does not typically affect a person's cognitive abilities, senses (sight, smell, touch, hearing, taste), or bowel and bladder function. While there is currently no cure for ALS, treatments and therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

The onset of ALS symptoms is often subtle and can vary from person to person. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more pronounced and widespread.

Common symptoms include:

Muscle Weakness: Often beginning in the limbs (hands, feet, arms, legs) or in the muscles of speech, swallowing, or breathing.

Muscle Cramps and Spasms: Painful muscle contractions and uncontrolled twitching (fasciculations).

Stiffness (Spasticity): Muscles may feel tight and resistant to movement.

Difficulty with Speech (Dysarthria): Slurred, slow, or strained speech.

Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Choking or coughing while eating or drinking, leading to weight loss and malnutrition.

Difficulty Breathing: Shortness of breath, especially at night or when lying down.

Foot Drop: Difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, leading to tripping.

Hand Weakness: Difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning clothes or writing.

Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.

Emotional Lability: Involuntary crying or laughing that is not related to emotions.

The exact cause of ALS is largely unknown, and in most cases (90-95%), it occurs sporadically without a clear genetic link (sporadic ALS).

However, in 5-10% of cases, ALS is inherited (familial ALS) and is caused by specific gene mutations. Researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of ALS.

Potential contributing factors under investigation include:

Genetic Mutations: Several genes have been identified that are associated with familial ALS, including C9orf72, SOD1, TARDBP, and FUS.

Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain toxins, viruses, or other environmental triggers is being studied, though no definitive link has been established.

Oxidative Stress: Damage to cells caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Problems with the energy-producing centers of cells.

Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the nervous system.

Excitotoxicity: Overstimulation of nerve cells by neurotransmitters like glutamate.

Diagnosing ALS can be challenging, especially in the early stages, as its symptoms can mimic other neurological conditions. There is no single test for ALS.

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive approach, including:

Neurological Examination: A doctor will assess muscle strength, reflexes, coordination, and sensation.

Electromyography (EMG): Measures the electrical activity of muscles.

Nerve Conduction Study (NCS): Measures the speed and strength of electrical signals traveling through nerves.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Used to rule out other conditions such as spinal cord tumors, multiple sclerosis, or herniated discs.

Blood and Urine Tests: To rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): In some cases, cerebrospinal fluid may be analyzed to rule out other neurological disorders.

Muscle Biopsy: Rarely performed, but can help rule out muscle diseases.

Currently, there is no cure for ALS, but treatments focus on managing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving quality of life.

Concord Stem Cell Limited is committed to exploring innovative therapeutic approaches.

Our products, including Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSC), Stromal Vascular Fraction, and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), hold significant promise in the field of regenerative medicine and are being investigated for their potential in neurodegenerative conditions like ALS.

Conventional treatment approaches include:

Medications:

Riluzole (Rilutek): The first FDA-approved drug for ALS, it can slow the progression of the disease and extend survival by a few months.

Edaravone (Radicava): Another FDA-approved medication that may help slow the decline of daily function in some people with ALS.

Symptomatic Medications: Medications to manage muscle cramps, spasticity, pain, sleep disturbances, and excess saliva.

Therapies:

Physical Therapy: To maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

Occupational Therapy: To help individuals maintain independence in daily activities.

Speech Therapy: To improve communication and swallowing difficulties.

Nutritional Support: To ensure adequate calorie and fluid intake, especially with swallowing difficulties.

Respiratory Therapy: To manage breathing problems, including non-invasive ventilation (NIV) or, in advanced stages, tracheostomy and mechanical ventilation.

Psychological Counseling: To help individuals and families cope with the emotional and psychological impact of ALS.

Advanced Regenerative Medicine:

Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hUC-MSC): These cells possess immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, making them a promising area of research for ALS. They may help reduce inflammation, promote neuronal survival, and potentially replace damaged cells.

Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF): Contains a rich mixture of cells, including mesenchymal stem cells, which could contribute to tissue repair and regeneration.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Contains growth factors that can promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.

Other Autologous Products: Bone Marrow Concentrate, Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cell, Platelet Lysate, Platelet Rich Fibrin, Injectable Platelet Rich Fibrin are also being explored for their potential regenerative benefits in various neurological conditions.

Concord Stem Cell Limited, as the only DGDA Approved Stem Cell Manufacturer and Provider Lab in Bangladesh with a cGMP Facility, is dedicated to advancing the field of regenerative medicine.

We are actively involved in research and development to bring safe and effective cellular therapies to patients, including those living with ALS. It is important to note that while regenerative therapies show great promise, they are largely investigational for ALS and should be discussed with a qualified medical professional.