Local researchers find cure for Lou Gehrig's disease in lab rats

By Thomas Fudge / Science and Technology Reporter, KPBS Public Broadcasting

Published August 6, 2006 at 9:00 PM PDT

This story was published more than 18 years ago.

San Diego researchers have successfully suppressed a defective gene in ALS-infected rats. Host Tom Fudge asks about the impact this breakthrough may have for patients with Lou Gehrig's disease.

San Diego researchers have taken the next step in the fight against Lou Gehrig's disease. A new cure proves effective in suppressing a defective gene in ALS-infected rats, and doctors are confident that this method will translate to humans as well. Host Tom Fudge speaks with researchers about this latest medical breakthrough, the wide-ranging impact it might have on affected patients, and why these discoveries are so important to San Diego.

Learn more about Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), known as " Lou Gehrig's disease ."

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Guests:

Dr. Richard A. Smith , a doctor at the Center for Neurologic Study in La Jolla.
Dr. Don Cleveland , a professor of medicine, neuroscience and cellular and molecular medicine at the University of San Diego's Ludwig Institute.