Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, specifically the motor neurons in the spinal cord. These neurons are responsible for sending signals to muscles, enabling movement. In SMA, a mutation in the SMN1 gene leads to the loss of motor neurons, resulting in muscle weakness and atrophy. This can impact a person's ability to walk, eat, and breathe. SMA varies in severity and can affect individuals differently, manifesting from infancy to later in life. Treatments are available to improve quality of life and extend motor function.