This research study is being done to find out if tocilizumab, also known as Actemra™, can
help with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The investigators also want to find out if
tocilizumab is safe to take without causing too many side effects.
Currently ALS has no cure and 2 modestly effective treatment to slow the progression of the
disease. Although not the initial cause of ALS, the immune system plays a role in the death
of motor neurons. The immune cells that participate in this process are stimulated by a
substance called interleukin-6 (IL-6) whose effect is blocked by tocilizumab and thus, may
slow the death of motor neurons and slow the disease.
Phase:
Phase 2
Details
Lead Sponsor:
Barrow Neurological Institute
Collaborators:
ALS Association Barrow Neurological Foundation Genentech, Inc. Massachusetts General Hospital