Based on previous studies highlighting an altered control of CNS metabolism in ALS, we herein characterized the expression of AMPKα in primary cultures of astrocytes derived from non-transgenic (Ntg) and transgenic rats carrying an ALS-associated mutated form of the superoxide dismutase 1 gene (hSOD1G93A). The gene discussed is SOD1; the disease is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.