Autosomal dominant
Linked to specific changes near the end of the KIF5A gene, which alter the tail of a motor protein that moves cargo along nerve fibres. Changes elsewhere in KIF5A cause other conditions, such as hereditary spastic paraplegia.
Signs and symptoms
ALS is a progressive disease of the nerve cells that control muscles, and it can be fatal.
What a diagnosis changes
Care is provided by multidisciplinary ALS teams, with physiotherapy, nutrition and speech support and breathing support when needed. Genetic counselling is important before testing relatives who have no symptoms.
Genes analysed
Also known as
ALS25
