title: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and environmental factors.
abstract: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder that affects central and peripheral motor neuron cells. Its etiology is unknown, although a relationship between genetic background and environmental factors may play a major role in triggering the neurodegeneration. In this review, we analyze the role of environmental factors in ALS: heavy metals, electromagnetic fields and electric shocks, pesticides, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine, physical activity and the controversial role of sports. The literature on the single issues is analyzed in an attempt to clarify, as clearly as possible, whether each risk factor significantly contributes to the disease pathogenesis. After summarizing conflicting observations and data, the authors provide a final synthetic statement.
authors.forename: Virginia
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Bozzoni
authors.forename: Orietta
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Pansarasa
authors.forename: Luca
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Diamanti
authors.forename: Guido
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Nosari
authors.forename: Cristina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Cereda
authors.forename: Mauro
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ceroni
mesh_terms: D000690:Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / Q000209:etiology*; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D019216:Metals, Heavy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010575:Pesticides / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012307:Risk Factors; D013177:Sports
chemical_list: D019216:Metals, Heavy; D010575:Pesticides