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Researchers identify protein that prevents serious brain damage, reduces risk of fatal HSV-1 infection

University of Illinois Chicago researchers discovered a function of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 in an antiviral defense mechanism, limiting HSV-1 virus infection through rapid activation of antiviral immunity. The protein complex protects the host by preventing encephalitis and possible death due to HSV-1 infection.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 14, 2021

Family of proteins offers promise as ischemic stroke treatment, preclinical trial finds

A preclinical trial has found that boosting a naturally occurring protein family may reduce damage from ischemic strokes. The study, published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, discovered that administering supplemental IAIP after an ischemic stroke reduced the size of the damaged area and improved functional recovery.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 1, 2021

Ability of brain to protect itself from damage revealed

Researchers at the University of Oxford have identified a natural biological mechanism that allows brain cells to survive during a stroke, enabling the development of potential neuroprotective drugs. The 'endogenous neuroprotection' discovered in rats has shown to increase cell survival by stimulating production of hamartin protein.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2013

New studies show spinal cord injury and ALS respond to cell transplantation

Researchers found that mesenchymal stem cell transplantation in animal models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injury promotes functional recovery. Bone marrow cell transplantation coupled with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor also shows neuroprotective and angiogenic effects in ALS animal models.

Can EPO prevent loss of brain function in schizophrenia?

A new study explores the potential of erythropoietin (EPO) as a neuroprotective agent for schizophrenia. EPO was found to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and enhance cognitive functioning in patients with schizophrenia. The results suggest that EPO may be a promising compound for preventing loss of brain function in this disease.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 3, 2003