'Survival protein' seen to protect brain from strokeRSS Feed

A 'survival protein' which protects the brain from brain injury in stroke, diabetes and heart attack has been detected in animal models.

Research published online in journal Nature Medicine found that when brain tissue is subjected to a stressful but not lethal threat, a defence response occurs to protect cells in case it occurs again.

The Iduna protein was found to increase three-to four-fold in preconditioned mouse brain tissue, scientists have said.

Valina Dawson, of the Johns Hopkins Institute of Cell Engineering, said: "Apparently, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger."

"This protective response was broad in its defence of neurons and glia and blood vessels - the entire brain. It's not just a delay of death, but real protection that lasts for about 72 hours."

Meanwhile, research published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that when chronic lower back pain is reversed, so is the brain injury caused by the condition.

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Posted by Matthew Heap
 

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