Aging is the greatest risk factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is a fatal neurodegenerative disease characterized by the progressive degeneration of upper motor neurons (UMN) and lower motor neurons (LMN). Several models have been generated to study ALS pathology, including both in vivo and in vitro models. Each model has its unique advantages and limitations, but they provide a powerful toolkit for ALS research.
As a leading provider of advanced aging research services, CD BioSciences is dedicated to offering ALS model customization services. Our team of seasoned experts, supported by advanced facilities, is dedicated to offering customized solutions that push the boundaries of scientific discovery.
We offer customized cellular models of ALS using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) or other relevant cell lines. Our physiologically relevant cell system enables high-throughput screening of small molecule libraries or functional genomics-type approaches (RNAi / CRISPR-Cas9) using high-content imaging or biomarker readouts. We help clients gain valuable insights into the underlying disease mechanisms by introducing ALS-associated genetic variations and studying their impact on cellular function and age-related changes.
We have harnessed the versatility of a yeast system (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) to engineer ALS-linked protein, facilitating the exploration of cellular pathways, protein aggregation, and other age-related factors that contribute to disease pathogenesis.
CD BioSciences' expertise in C. elegans model development allows us to generate customized strains that exhibit ALS-like symptoms and manifest age-dependent changes, enabling a deeper understanding of the disease progression and potential therapeutic targets.
Leveraging D. melanogaster models, we help clients uncover novel insights into ALS pathogenesis. By introducing ALS-associated mutations into the fly genome and studying the resulting phenotypes at various life stages, our clients can shed light on the interplay between aging and the development of this devastating disease.
CD BioSciences' extensive experience in rodent model development allows us to generate highly specialized ALS models. We assist clients in developing mouse models of ALS based on dietary exposure to β-Sitosterol-β-d-glucoside (BSSG). Additionally, our scientists can offer transgenic mice or rats, introducing specific genetic modifications to recapitulate the hallmarks of ALS. We also incorporate age-related factors that influence the onset and severity of the disease into the models.
Species | Genetic models |
Mouse | C9orf72 BAC mouse model, Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1)-G93A transgenic mouse model, TDP43-Q331K transgenic mouse model |
D. melanogaster | SOD1, TDP-43, FUS, C9orf72 mutation models |
C. elegans | SOD1, TDP-43, FUS, C9orf72 mutation models |
S. cerevisiae | SOD1, TDP-43, FUS mutation models |
We explore the biological mechanisms underlying the association between aging and ALS. Our services involve studying age-related changes in motor neuron function, genetic mutations associated with both aging and ALS, and the impact of cellular aging processes on the development or progression of ALS.
In addition, we help clients investigate how aging interacts with other potential factors for ALS, such as genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and lifestyle factors. We also employ statistical methods such as multivariable regression and stratified analysis to assess the independent effect of aging on ALS risk.
CD BioSciences aims to unveil new avenues for therapeutic development by customizing ALS models to incorporate aging complexities. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us or make an online inquiry.
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All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.