Acute viral infection accelerates neurodegeneration in a mouse model of ALS.

ABSTRACT: While several viral infections have been associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the mechanism(s) through which they promote disease remains elusive. Here we investigate the impact of common, acute viral infections on ALS disease onset and progression in the SOD1^G93A mouse model. A single sublethal infection prior to onset of ALS clinical signs is associated with markedly accelerated ALS disease progression characterized by rapid loss of hindlimb function. Prior infection results in gliosis in the lumbar spine and upregulation of transcriptional pathways involved in inflammatory responses, metabolic dysregulation, and muscular dysfunction. Therapeutic suppression of gliosis with an anti-inflammatory small molecule, or administration of a direct-acting antiviral, is

SUBMITTER: Marzok A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC13624262 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature