While the causes of MND are not fully understood, genetics (identified in 20% of cases, and half of these having a family history) and several other factors have been implicated. These potentially include:^3,5,6

·     - abnormal protein build-up in motor neurones with impaired RNA processing, often linked to a specific genetic mutation;

·     - cell membrane dysfunction and ion-channel dysregulation;

·     - changes in cells surrounding and supporting motor neurones, such as glial cells providing nutrients;

·     - other processes causing a lack of nutrients required for nerve function;

·     - adverse neurotransmitter activity, particularly due to over-stimulation by glutamate;

·     - mitochondrial misfunction;

·     - a family history of frontotemporal dementia.

Although inconclusive, studies have also suggested possible links between a range of lifestyle and environmental effects and increased MND risk. These include mechanical and/or electrical trauma, military service, high levels of exercise, exposure to agrochemicals and pesticides, heavy metals, cigarette smoking, and cyanotoxins produced by blue-green bacteria.^2,8