Experimental amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the guinea-pig.

Abstract

In guinea-pigs a diet which was deficient in ascorbic acid provoked neurogenic atrophy of the muscles, degeneration of the anterior horn motor cells and demyelination of the pyramidal tract. Muscles showed a decrease of cytochrome and cytochrome c oxidase. Subcutaneous haemorrhages were also found, particularly around the knee joints. The haemorrhages and the histopathology of the muscles and spinal cord were prevented by a high dosage of ascorbic acid. In animals with an ascorbic acid deficiency, histopathology of muscles and spinal cord were also prevented by L-cysteine, L-methionine and L-hydroxyproline. Subcutaneous haemorrhages were not prevented by these supplements.

• Authors: W A den Hartog Jager
• Journal: Journal of the neurological sciences (J Neurol Sci) Vol. 67 Issue 2 Pg. 133-42 (Feb 1985) ISSN: 0022-510X [Print] Netherlands
• PMID: 3981216 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (pathology)
• Animals
• Anterior Horn Cells (pathology)
• Ascorbic Acid Deficiency
• Disease Models, Animal
• Guinea Pigs
• Male
• Motor Neurons (pathology)
• Muscles (pathology)
• Pyramidal Tracts (pathology)