Are we optimistic about curing or treating als

Optimistic? Yes: Researchers are innately optimistic. However, the underlying cause of ALS, a devastating disease, remains elusive. Thus, targeted preventive therapies are not yet on the horizon. Hopefully most of the donated funds from the ALS ice bucket challenge will go to direct research in the field. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/amyotrophiclateralsclerosis/ALS.htm