Target ALS Global Natural History Study
A transformative study that brings together communities from across the world to unlock insights that will accelerate the journey towards effective treatments.
A path to effective treatments
Samples gathered in our Global Natural History Study provide a direct path to finding effective treatments for ALS for all.
Our study aims to enroll at least 800 symptomatic ALS participants and 200 healthy controls from around the world to create the most comprehensive and globally representative collection of biofluids and data for ALS research.
As part of our ALS Global Research Initiative (AGRI), this study involves longitudinal collection (samples collected over the course of study participation) of blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), epidemiological (detailed health, lifestyle, and background) information as well as clinical and digital measures of motor, cognitive, speech, and respiratory function.
This broad, inclusive study is helping scientists understand what causes ALS and how it progresses, from genetics to possible environmental factors. These insights are revealing important biomarkers and paving the way for earlier detection and more effective treatments.
Where every sample speeds discovery
When someone participates in this Global Natural History Study, we don't wait to impact research. Samples from participants enable immediate impact on research to accelerate progress. The datasets and samples we collect are made available to scientis
30k+
vials of biofluid samples collected
14
active global research sites
290+
participants enrolled
The power of cerebrospinal fluid
Cerebrospinal fluid samples provide the most direct window into how ALS affects the brain and spinal cord—insights we can’t get from any other fluid.
We collect CSF samples because it’s the only fluid that directly touches the brain and spinal cord—making it the gold standard for uncovering how ALS develops and progresses. We intentionally collect the most difficult biofluid because it’s the most impactful. Thanks to the commitment of participants, scientists are now using CSF to develop cutting-edge assays, detect misfolded TDP-43, and identify early disease signals that could transform how ALS is diagnosed and treated.
Biofluids donated by participants are already accelerating discovery: scientists are using CSF to adapt cutting-edge assays that detect misfolded TDP-43, assess for cryptic peptides that could predict ALS earlier, and fuel collaborations powered by longitudinal data and participant samples through the Target ALS Data Engine.
With cerebrospinal fluid samples, we have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to unlock transformational insights that have the capacity to accelerate ALS research.
Where you can participate
The following study locations are actively enrolling participants. We reimburse travel expenses for you and a caregiver, removing financial and geographic barriers to your participation. Please reach out to begin the process at your preferred location. Your participation will make a meaningful impact on ALS research.