Muscle Wasting

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating disease in which the motor neurons that control movement gradually die, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and ultimately loss of vital functions like breathing. Although the brain and spinal cord are directly affected, muscles themselves play a critical role in keeping motor neurons healthy through a constant exchange of molecular signals. 

Muscle atrophy—whether caused by aging, long-term bedrest, disuse, chronic illness, or even common medications—is a major but often overlooked threat to health and independence. As muscles shrink and weaken, people become more vulnerable to falls, hospitalization, and loss of mobility, creating a cascade of medical and social consequences.