Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a degenerative disorder of the corticospinal tract that involves the death of neurons. ALS is characterized by stiff muscles, muscle twitching, and gradually worsening weakness due to muscles decreasing in size. This results in difficulty speaking, swallowing, and eventually breathing. Most cases are sporadic however there can be a gene mutation in zinc-copper superoxide dismutase (SODl) which leads to free radical damage to neurons.