#als

#als

They focused on UPF1, a protein that acts like a proofreader, scanning RNA and destroying defective copies before they cause trouble. This process, called mRNA decay, is essential for healthy cells. The team discovered that UPF1 and TDP-43 normally work together to control the length of RNA messages - especially at their tail ends. These regions help regulate how long an RNA message lasts and where it goes in the cell. In ALS, these processes go haywire, leading to unstable RNA and stressed neurons.

Investigators discovered that a genetic mutation in the RNA-binding protein Ataxin-2 (ATXN2) disrupts the stability of microtubules - central components of the cytoskeleton in motor neurons - leading to impaired neuron growth and function. The findings may help inform the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which progressively destroys motor neurons and leads to muscle weakness and paralysis.

I wrote them letters for special days because I asked people who had lost parents what they wanted most from them. I'd write a sentence and sob. But little by little, sometimes at 3 a.m., I wrote them. For weddings, pregnancies, graduations, the first and last day of school. I even wrote one for a grandchild I may never have.

We are best of friends. We are really close. We are great co-parents. We really figured out the formula to staying a family and I think our kids are benefiting greatly from it and we are as well.