Nerves and Muscles Affected by ALS (IMAGE) Michigan Technological University Caption In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, motor neurons degenerate, as pictured, and eventually die. When the motor neurons die, the ability of the brain to initiate and control muscle movement is lost. Credit Image provided courtesy of The ALS Association, fighting Lou Gehrig's Disease on every front Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.