ALS Gene Study

(Announcement for Massachusetts General Hospital)

Researchers at the Massachusetts General Hospital are seeking individuals with ALS, their family members and other control individuals for participation in the ALS Gene Study, conducted by Dr. Robert H. Brown, Jr. This NIH-funded study focuses on finding the causes of ALS through an examination of both the genetics and environmental risk factors. The ALS Gene Study is an ongoing research study in collaboration with Northwestern University.

The purpose of this study is to identify ‘susceptibility genes,’ which are genes that may be associated with a higher risk of developing this disease. Also, the researchers wish to recognize possible environmental risk factors that may be involved in causing ALS.

Blood samples from individuals with ALS, some of their family members, and unrelated controls are currently being accepted for this research project. Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires about their environment and family history, and for permission to review medical records pertaining to the onset and progression of the disease.

The Massachusetts General Hospital will cover all costs for participation, and the researchers are happy to help to make arrangements for the blood samples to be drawn locally. Travel to Boston is not necessary to participate in this study.

Lastly, although there are no direct benefits for those involved in this research, the research team at the Massachusetts General Hospital believes that understanding the causes of ALS will lead to more effective screening, diagnosis, treatments, and a cure.

We Need Your Help To Fight ALS!!

To help find a cure, please contact:

Nicole Couture, BS ncouture@partners.org
Diane McKenna-Yasek, RN, BSN
Day Neuromuscular Laboratory Massachusetts General Hospital 114 16th Street, Room 3125 Charlestown, MA 02129
Ph: (617) 726-5750 Fax: (617) 726-8543