20
Dec 2019
Scientists bring cure for motor neurone disease one step closer
Researchers at the University of St Andrews have identified cells thought to cause motor neurone disease.
MND causes signals from motor neurone cells in the spinal cord and brain, which control muscle activity such as walking and talking, to fail, leading to some patients being unable to speak or walk.
Scientists carrying out the research tested different combinations of motor neurones and glial cells grown together in a laboratory to test their discovery further. They found that glial cells from patients with MND caused the motor neurones of health people to stop producing the electrical signals needed to control muscles.
Project leader Professor Gareth Miles, said “We are very excited by these findings”, adding that they “clearly point the finger at glial cells as key players in this devastating disease.”
He went on to say “Interestingly, the negative influence of glial cells seems to prevent motor neurones from fulfilling their normal roles, even before the motor neurones show signs of dying.
“We hope that this new information highlights targets for the development of much-needed treatments and ultimately a cure for MND.”
Director of Research at the Motor Neurone Disease Association, Dr Brian Dickie, said “The human brain has at least as many support cells, called glial cells, as it does neurons.
“Whilst glial cells usually play a nurturing and supportive role, research has shown that they may accidentally play a role in a number of neurological diseases including motor neurone disease by affecting the speed at which the disease spreads through the central nervous system – a little like the way the strength of the wind can inadvertently fan the flames of the forest fire.
“Further research will be needed to show that the effects seen in cells grown in the lab are also happening in people with motor neurone disease.”
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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.
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