WASHINGTON, D.C.: Repeat expansions in the C9ORF72 gene increase risk for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia, but scientists have struggled to develop a mouse model that recapitulates the full spectrum of disease symptoms. But a new model that mimics the molecular pathology of the disease as well as some behavioural aspects. A third of the mice develop an acute neurodegenerative disease and die between 20 and 40 weeks of age. The survival curve could make a good readout for preclinical drug testing, suggested Ranum, who works at the University of Florida in Gainesville…