In this respect, motoneuronal response to axotomy resembles ALS-like degeneration, not only through the possible role of P2X4 in neuronal injury, but also through other features, such as neuronal activation of NLRP3 [46], low level of apoptotic cell death and recruitment of microglial cells. This evidence concerns the gene NLRP3 and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.