FGF21 and ALS Survival: New Muscle Hormone Link
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FGF21 Hormone Linked to Enhanced Survival in Amyotrophic lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
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New research suggests the myokine FGF21, released by muscles, is elevated in ALS patients and may offer a protective effect against the fatal neurodegenerative disease.
Discovery of FGF21’s Potential Protective Role in ALS
A new study published in Aging-US on August 9, 2025, reveals a potential link between the hormone fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and improved survival rates in individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The research, led by Abhishek Guha and Peter H. king from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, suggests that this myokine-a signaling molecule released by muscle tissue-is elevated in ALS patients and may offer a degree of protection against the disease’s progression.
ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles.this leads to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually, death. While some treatments can modestly slow the disease’s progression, there remains a critical need for a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms driving ALS and for the progress of effective therapies.
Understanding Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a complex and devastating condition. It primarily affects motor neurons, the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement. As these neurons degenerate,individuals experience progressive muscle weakness,difficulty speaking,swallowing,and breathing. The disease typically progresses rapidly, with a median survival time of approximately three to five years after diagnosis.
While the exact cause of ALS remains unknown in most cases (approximately 90-95% are considered sporadic), genetic factors play a role in a smaller percentage of cases (5-10%). Risk factors include age, family history, and possibly environmental exposures. Currently, there is no cure for ALS, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
The Role of FGF21 in ALS
The study’s findings indicate that individuals with higher levels of FGF21 in their system tend to exhibit enhanced survival rates compared to those with lower levels. FGF21 is known to be released by muscles in response to exercise and plays a role in regulating glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. The researchers hypothesize that FGF21’s protective effects in ALS may be related to its ability to reduce cellular stress and enhance neuronal resilience.
Specifically, the research demonstrated that FGF21 mitigates stress-induced cytotoxicity, meaning it helps protect cells from damage caused by stressful conditions.This is especially relevant in ALS, where motor neurons are constantly exposed to various stressors that contribute to their degeneration.