Grace Wang

Exploring the Link Between ALS Progression and Physical Activity

Started July 16, 2024

Abstract or project description

Usually, when diagnosed with ALS, the disease progresses. Often starting in the limbs and spreading to other parts of the body. Early symptoms can begin anywhere including muscle weakness and stiffness, vocal pitch change, fatigue, slurred speech, tripping, muscle cramping, and thinking/behavioral changes. Over time, muscle weakness will increase, leading to muscle paralysis and the loss of motor control in the limbs. This project seeks to understand the physiology and studies that have explored how physical activity can be both a risk factor and protective factor for ALS. Apart from humans surveys, this project explores mouse models of ALS mice in different types of exercise and their effects on ALS progression.