The University of Pittsburgh Center for ALS Research was designated by Dr. Arthur Levine in 2006. Robert Ferrante, PhD, MS and David Lacomis, MD are co-directors. The primary purpose of the center is to promote collaboration among University of Pittsburgh scientists and clinicians who share an interest in motor neuron disease research thereby expanding basic, clinical, and translational research in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Current collaborative projects include identification of cerebrospinal fluid and serum biomarkers, analyzing early and evolving anatomic changes in central nervous system motor pathways using high field MRI, and assessing caregiver stress. The evolution of these chemical and imaging biomarkers in ALS patients is also being studied to determine if they might provide insight into disease mechanisms and offer another way to monitor efficacy of treatment. An induced pleuripotent skin stem cell program is also being developed to further study motor neuron disease mechanisms and drug effects in vitro. The Center is also involved in several clinical drug trials in ALS including dexpramipexole and tirasemtiv. The center is also collaborating with other centers in obtaining serial CSF and blood biomarkers specimens. Additional goals include obtaining development of novel drug therapies in ALS.