Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, causing loss of muscle control and eventually leading to paralysis. It is also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS typically strikes people between the ages of 40 and 70, and there is currently no cure for the disease. Research into ALS focuses on understanding the underlying causes of the disease, finding effective treatments to slow its progression, and ultimately finding a cure. This includes studying genetic factors, environmental influences, and potential therapeutic interventions.