Stop the Pop

Apoptosis is an important function in multicellular organisms such as people. It keeps cancer at bay and helps keep organs healthy and fresh. But when it occurs in cells that aren't replaced (like motor neurons) nasty things (like ALS) happen. A couple of clinical trials are currently ongoing to support the mitochondria to delay apoptosis (Knopp with dexpramipexole and Trophos with olesoxime). Recently, a study was published which took a rather more aggressive approach. The approach probably isn't appropriate as a therapeutic because it isn't cell-specific. For a good explanation, please read Amber Dance's article over on the ALZ Forum. Ms. Dance is one of my favorite science writers and actually has some credentials to back up her analysis.