A review proposes that ALS emerges when neural resilience and reserve can no longer compensate for accumulated stress
Original source
The aging brain that doesn't fail: how neural resilience masks neurodegeneration. (opens in a new tab)Compass summarised this from the study's abstract.
Study details
- Study type
- Review
A perspective review proposes that neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) develop when protective systems can no longer maintain brain and nerve-cell function. It describes a threshold model involving pathology, resilience, reserve and factors such as genetics, environment and aging.
Why this matters
The model may help guide future ALS prevention and treatment research by focusing on mechanisms that preserve neural function, not only on disease-related damage. It does not establish a new treatment or show a benefit for people with ALS.
Limitations and context
This is a perspective review and synthesis of existing evidence, not a clinical trial or proof that the proposed model works in patients. The review does not test an intervention or identify a specific ALS therapy; its implications for treatment remain to be demonstrated.