Protein linked to brain inflammationRSS Feed

Scientists have discovered a protein which could be used to develop a new drug to target brain inflammation.

Research published in the FACEB Journal found that acuaporin-4 could lead to medications used to treat the brain injury encephalitis, as well as other conditions, by targeting them at a cellular level.

It was found that mice which did not produce the protein experienced significantly reduced brain inflammation, indicating that the elimination of acuaporin-4 causes the brain to be less vulnerable to the brain injury.

Researcher Alan S Verkman of the University of California said: "Our data suggest that inhibition or down-regulation of aquaporin-4 expression in brain and spinal cord may offer a new therapeutic option in diseases such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica and other conditions associated with neuroinflammation."

Meanwhile, chronic brain inflammation is associated with some elements of memory loss, according to a study presented at the American Academy of Neurology annual meeting.

News from Serious Law, specialist acquired brain injury solicitors

Posted by Matthew Dixon
 

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