These included some genes (SYNE1, SDK1, EEF1D, GSDMD, TIMP2, CST3, ALAD, AKT1, EPHA4, SPAST, SMN1, SETX, ATXN2, TBK1, SPG11, TAF15, MMP9) previously reported as potential risk factors in ALS, as well as novel candidates whose association with ALS was previously unappreciated. The gene discussed is MMP9; the disease is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.