ALS researchers have made important progress over the past few years, and there is a growing optimism that they are getting closer to developing more effective drugs and treatments for more people.

To accelerate the development of effective treatments, researchers still need more people to participate. There is only so much scientists can learn in the lab without direct participation from volunteers who are living with ALS.
"If people don't volunteer for research," says Dr. Richard Bedlack of the Duke ALS Clinic, "we're going to be stuck right where we are today."

​There are a number of meaningful ways you can help:

  • Clinical Trials test the safety and effectiveness of experimental drugs and treatments that show potential in the lab.
  • Observational Studies collect valuable data through surveys, exams, blood draws, and other means. Participants do not take experimental treatments. 
  • Tissue Donation allows researchers to directly study the brain and spinal cord after a person has passed.
  • Advocacy and Engagement efforts help pass laws, increase funding, and shape the future of ALS research.​
“Without clinical research, ALS will never find treatments or a cure. We need people to participate in research so we can find answers for this godawful disease.”

- Layne Oliff, Patient Advocate (1959-2025)
Not everyone can or wants to participate in ALS research. But if enough people get involved, together we can take action to slow, stop, reverse, prevent, and end ALS.

Learn more about progress and hope in ALS research.

ALS RESEARCH GUIDE

Partners and Collaborators