ALS Genetics

This talk will cover some genetics basics as well as the inheritance patterns of both sporadic and familial ALS. We will review known familial ALS genes and the process for genetic testing for both symptomatic and pre-symptomatic FALS patients. We’ll also discuss the logistics of testing within a family, as well as the possible results of genetic testing and their implications. Lastly, we’ll cover some genetic-focused trials that are currently in progress.

Lisa Kinsley, MS, CGC graduated with a biology degree from Valparaiso University, and then earned her Master’s degree from Northwestern University’s Genetic Counseling Graduate program in 2009 and board certification in 2010. Currently, she is the senior genetic counselor for Northwestern’s Neurology department. She provides genetic counseling services for patients with a variety of neurogenetic indications in the MDA, ALS, epilepsy, cognitive neurology, and movement disorders clinics. She also sees patients for a variety of genetic indications in Northwestern’s Neurogenetic Counseling Clinic.