Essential trace element alterations in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Although trace elements have been implicated in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for a long time, new evidence has connected familial ALS with the metalloenzyme copper-zinc superoxide dismutase, thus reinforcing the study of their metabolism. This work presents the results of serum and cerebrospinal fluid levels of copper, zinc, manganese and magnesium, by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Statistically significant decreased cerebrospinal fluid and serum copper levels were found in patients compared to the control group (20.25+/-7.09 vs. 30.86+/-16.02 SD mu g/l and 913.21+/-165.55 vs. 1020.17+/-197.76 SD mu g/l) while serum manganese levels were found to be increased in patients (3.59+/-0.89 SD mu g/l) compared to controls (3.03+/-1.23 SD mu g/l). Zinc and magnesium levels were unchanged. Our findings indicate an essential trace element imbalance in the disease. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.