Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal disease that progressively destroys motor neurons, leading to paralysis and death, with no current cure. This project investigates how the protein EMMPRIN and the enzyme MMP-9 may contribute to ALS by degrading the extracellular matrix, which supports motor neurons. Using an ALS mouse model, researchers will manipulate EMMPRIN and MMP-9 levels to study their impact on the extracellular matrix and neuron survival. The goal is to uncover new mechanisms behind motor neuron loss and identify potential targets for therapies to slow ALS progression.
