Prion-"like"
BMAA
ALS-PDC
Microalgae 
Cyanobacteria
Plant Root Symbiont
Cycad Seeds
Island of Guam
Flying Foxes


BMAA, microalgae, and plant root symbiosis

BMAA can be produced by both free-living cyanobacteria and those living in symbiosis with plants.Some plant species, like cycads, form symbiotic relationships with cyanobacteria, specifically in their roots, which can produce BMAA.This symbiotic relationship allows for nitrogen fixation by the cyanobacteria, providing a benefit to the plant.However, the BMAA produced by these symbiotic cyanobacteria can be transferred to the plant and accumulate in its tissues, including the seeds.Research has shown that consuming these plant parts (e.g., cycad seeds) can lead to human exposure to BMAA.The presence of BMAA in the environment and its potential biomagnification through food webs is a growing concern for human health, particularly in relation to neurodegenerative diseases. 

Studies on the island of Guam linked the high incidence of the neurological disorder ALS-PDC to the consumption of cycad seeds and flying foxes, which consumed the seeds. BMAA was found in the cycad roots (produced by symbiotic cyanobacteria) and in the brains of ALS-PDC patients.
Further research indicates that BMAA can also be produced by free-living cyanobacteria in aquatic environments and can be transferred through aquatic food webs.