Diya Verma

What markers and immune signatures preceding muscle atrophy can be used as diagnostic and/or therapeutic targets for ALS?

Started June 24, 2026

Abstract or project description

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative condition which destroys motor neurons throughout the body and leads to muscle loss and mental deterioration. About 200,000 people are currently diagnosed with ALS worldwide and upwards of 85% of all cases experience muscle atrophy. One of the initial signs of ALS in the body is rapid muscle atrophy and by determining which markers and immune signatures in the body precede early muscle atrophy in patients we can reduce the chances for severe muscle atrophy leading to ALS. This study intends to conduct a thorough systematic literature review to determine which gene expression patterns and immune signatures are most prevalent in muscle atrophy and which therapies are most effective in targeting these signaling pathways and reducing muscle loss. This review aims to separate data by biological variables when possible, define potential diagnostic and therapeutic avenues, and conduct interviews/surveys with experts in the field of neuromuscular medicine and ALS research.