Results from a completed phase 1 trial of neural stem cells in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) show that the stem cells and the surgical method used to transplant them were safe and well-tolerated. In addition, the experimental therapy appears to have "interrupted the progression of the disease" in some trial participants.

New evidence links the motor neuron diseases ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), an international team of scientists has reported. The researchers say the findings could lead to the identification of therapeutic targets common to both disorders.

In a bow to the power of the Internet to instantly inform, the MDA/ALS Newsmagazine (ALSN) is advancing to a completely online magazine, beginning

in January 2013. With this new format, ALSN online will expand and grow, offering new features and ways for the ALS community to communicate and connect.

As Batrek Yassa, 17, received the Portfolio Gold Award from the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers at the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards national ceremony in early June, he thought of his mother, Sawsan Yassa, the inspiration behind his winning artwork.

In the two years since it was launched on Oct. 19, 2010, the National ALS Registry has grown to include registrants representing all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and developed into a comprehensive resource in the fight against ALS.