Deciphering the molecular logic of ALS using model organisms: "A family affair."

Abstract

Recent advances in the genetics of ALS have bolstered hope that a molecular logic for the pathogenesis of the disease is fast approaching. An emerging challenge is the dissection of the common and unique molecular pathways altered by ALS gene mutations. Disease modeling in rodents has yielded many important insights, but as the genetic complexity of the disease grows, additional models with improved speed, cost and genetic tractability will be increasingly necessary. Models such as fruitfly, nematode, and zebrafish have been important for diagramming the molecular pathways that underlie many fundamental biological processes, but have been comparatively underutilized in the study of neurodegeneration. Here we highlight the benefits and opportunities for increased diversity in the models used to study ALS.