Genetic markers of ALS

As a result of the advances made in the field of molecular and population g enetics, it is anticipated that several genes underlying ALS or predisposin g to ALS might be identified in the near future. This will enable physician s to establish a diagnosis of ALS based on molecular findings in addition t o clinical and electrophysiological findings. At present, mutations in the gene encoding for the free radical scavenging enzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD1), is the only basis for a molecular diagnosis. Other mutations are un der investigation and confirmed results are eagerly awaited.