Articles tagged with Neurodegenerative Diseases
A study published in JMIR Formative Research reveals that automated analysis of a common clinical drawing task can be used to estimate cognition in older adults from Japan and the USA. Researchers found that people with lower cognitive scores had more variability in their drawing speed, angle, and time spent paused during the task.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that Synapsology, a game-like dual-task exercise, helps maintain or improve cognitive and physical abilities in older adults aged 85-97. The study, published in Alzheimer's & Dementia, suggests that this cost-effective intervention can have a societal impact.
The JNM Molecular Imaging of Neurodegeneration Supplement provides an overview of molecular imaging techniques in neurodegenerative disorders. The supplement aims to improve early and differential diagnosis, as well as stratify and monitor therapy in these disorders.
A recent study at UC San Francisco discovered that fragmented tau protein in diseased neurons could be a new target for existing drugs, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's. The researchers found that measuring the fragments in cerebrospinal fluid may help distinguish between different forms of dementia.
A new study by Bar-Ilan University researchers reveals that synchronized brain activity is crucial for information transfer between brain regions. Increasing synchronization improves transmission and processing of information, while decreasing it impairs cognitive function. This finding may contribute to the development of treatments f...
A randomized controlled trial found that consuming cranberries for 12 weeks improved participants' memory of everyday events and neural functioning. The study also showed a significant decrease in LDL or 'bad' cholesterol levels, contributing to improved vascular health and brain perfusion.
Research on experimental drug NU-9 invents by Northwestern University scientists reveals it is more effective than existing FDA-approved drugs for ALS treatment. NU-9 also repairs the axons of diseased upper motor neurons in ALS mouse model, offering a potential new approach to treating the devastating disease.
A new circuit model provides an explanation for how deep brain stimulation (DBS) relieves Parkinson's disease motor symptoms by interrupting a vicious cycle between the subthalamic nucleus and the striatum. The model suggests that DBS restores a balance with other rhythm frequencies, enabling better movement control.
Researchers suggest a novel neuroimaging technique can unveil Alzheimer's disease secrets and predict symptom risk. The 'neuromelanin-sensitive MRI' method provides insights into the brain's noradrenergic system, linked to aggressive behavior and cognitive decline.
Researchers revived photoreceptor cells in human macula, responding to bright and dim lights. The study restores communication between retinal cells, transforming brain and vision research.
The authors of a Call to Action emphasize the value of incorporating patient perspectives in clinical Parkinson's disease studies and recommend how to include patient researchers effectively. Patient involvement can help design better studies, ensure tolerable protocols, and improve research outcomes. However, specific challenges must ...
Scientists have found that transplanting faecal microbiota from young mice into old mice can reverse hallmarks of ageing in the gut, eyes, and brain. The study suggests that gut microbes play a role in regulating some of the detrimental effects of ageing, offering a potential solution in the form of gut microbe replacement therapy.
Researchers discovered a novel mutation in the alpha-synuclein gene that causes severe Lewy body pathology, revealing distinct mechanisms of neurodegeneration. The E83Q mutation influences alpha-synuclein's structure and aggregation properties, leading to increased pathology formation and toxicity.
A new AI-based method distinguishes between stable and progressive cognitive impairment, enabling accurate diagnosis with an accuracy rate of 85%. This technique overcomes the complexity of subtle structural changes in mild cognitive impairment, contributing to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3.
A Boston University study found that living in areas with more greenery may boost cognitive function, particularly in middle-aged women. The research suggests that exposure to greenspace could improve processing speed and attention, as well as reduce depression, a risk factor for dementia.
Research shows that stable basal ganglia activity is essential for smooth movements, as disrupting this activity leads to unstable and involuntary movements. The study used a chemogenetic tool to suppress neural activity in the subthalamic nucleus of macaque monkeys, inducing abnormal movements.
Researchers found plasma neurofilament light levels were elevated in all types of frontotemporal dementia, and in people who had mutations but hadn't shown symptoms yet. Higher levels of the protein were associated with greater disease severity and increased just before symptom onset.
The 29th annual CNS meeting will feature scientific talks, posters, and receptions, with a focus on the latest advances in cognitive neuroscience. Registered press members will have access to these sessions, as well as a quiet Press Room, while COVID safety protocols are in place.
A groundbreaking system implanted directly on the spinal cord has restored blood pressure regulation in a patient with multiple system atrophy-parkinsonian type (MSA-P), enabling them to walk again after being bedridden for over a year. This innovative therapy paves the way for new clinical breakthroughs in treating degenerative diseases.
A study reveals that Alzheimer's patients experience lethargy due to the degeneration of neurons that keep them awake, not a lack of sleep. Researchers developed a hypothesis that these patients have trouble staying awake and are testing a treatment approach to shut down the system keeping them awake.
Researchers have identified 75 regions of the genome associated with Alzheimer's disease, including 42 novel regions. The study confirms the importance of pathological processes such as amyloid peptide production and tau protein function in the disease. A genetic risk score has also been devised to better evaluate patient risk.
Researchers have engineered probiotic bacteria to produce the dopamine precursor L-DOPA, a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease. The new approach eliminates side effects and reduces treatment complications, offering a promising alternative to existing treatments.
A genetic disease in children, CHARGE syndrome causes intellectual disability, attention deficit disorder, and autism. The INRS team is studying the gene's impact on brain development to identify potential treatments.
Researchers have found a possible target for ALS treatment in astrocyte abnormalities. Astrocytes, a subtype of cells in the central nervous system, are involved in motor neuron death, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. The study offers hope for developing new drugs to block this process.
Researchers at Insilico Medicine have used AI to identify potential targets that are implicated in multiple age-related diseases and also play a role in the basic biology of aging. The study resulted in the identification of 69 high-confidence targets with potential high druggability.
The Experimental Biology (EB) 2022 meeting features live presentations and a moderated Q&A session on groundbreaking studies. The virtual press conference reveals potential treatments for Parkinson's disease, COVID-19 vaccine-associated side effects, and alleviating food allergies.
A new study found that excessive daytime napping among seniors is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. After a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's, daytime napping duration triples, suggesting that the brain's wake-promoting neurons may be affected by dementia pathology.
Researchers found a strong connection between retinal layer thickness and brain volume, suggesting retina assessments as a potential biomarker for brain atrophy. Thinner retinal layers correlated with reduced brain white matter and hippocampus volume.
Researchers at UC San Francisco have identified five genes that enable efficient sleep, contrasting with current thinking that lack of sleep accelerates neurodegeneration. These genes may confer protections against neurological disease and improve sleep quality, paving the way for new treatments.
A study found that intact astrocyte networks are essential for neural homeostasis, synaptic plasticity, and spatial cognitive abilities in adult mice. Disrupting these networks impairs spatial learning and memory due to altered neuronal excitability and compromised synaptic transmission.
Scientists successfully revive motor neurons in laboratory experiments, showing promise for ALS treatment. The method uses magnetic field pulses to improve nerve function and transport, with healthy cells remaining unchanged.
A pioneering UK study has found that hearing loss and epilepsy are early features of Parkinson's disease, appearing up to ten and five years before diagnosis respectively. The research, conducted on a diverse population in East London, also uncovered novel risk factors for the condition.
Researchers discover a genetic mechanism linking ALS and dementia to UNC13A protein corruption, providing hope for new treatments by blocking corrupted instructions. The study found that genetic variants increase the risk of UNC13A mRNA corruption in patients with ALS and FTD.
Researchers found that modulating immune cell activity via TREM2 receptor may impact neurodegenerative disease processes. Hyperactive microglia were shown to retain certain neuroprotective functions, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that certain stem cells have built-in tracers made of sugars that can track their movement in living tissues. The discovery could streamline and advance restorative research for diseases of the brain.
A new cloud-based data resource has been developed to help identify new subtypes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurological disorder. The tool, part of the Answer ALS collaborative effort, uses biological and clinical data from over 1,000 patients to better understand the disease.
Scientists have identified a new tool to control the movement of motor proteins in neurons, which could lead to new treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. The study found that the GSK3β enzyme can act as a stop switch for kinesin 1 motors, preventing them from detaching from microtubule tracks.
Researchers have identified nine new factors involved in DNA repair, a critical process for human cell health. The findings can help develop new cancer drugs and improve existing therapies.
Researchers found that astrocytes become pro-inflammatory and lose protective functions in ALS, leading to toxic build-up of glutamate that damages motor neurons. The study also identified distinct molecular patterns in astrocytes associated with different ALS-causing genetic mutations.
Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to strengthen brain networks between spared regions, improve grey-matter volume, and enhance movement control in individuals with Parkinson's disease. The study published in Annals of Neurology suggests that exercise can stimulate compensatory capacity in the brain, leading to reduced symptoms.
A green Mediterranean diet rich in polyphenols and low in red and processed meat may slow age-related brain atrophy. The DIRECT PLUS 18-month trial found significant attenuation of brain atrophy among participants who adhered to both diets.
A study found that consuming more than 7 grams of olive oil per day is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative, and respiratory disease mortality. Replacing margarine, butter, mayonnaise, and dairy fat with olive oil was also linked to improved health outcomes.
A recent study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that regular exercise enhances the connections between neurons in older adults, maintaining healthy cognition. The research, led by Kaitlin Casaletto and William Honer, suggests that physical activity may help boost synaptic functioning and safeguard against dementia.
A UMass Chan clinical trial demonstrates the safety and efficacy of an antisense oligonucleotide in suppressing mutant C9ORF72, a common cause of familial ALS. The treatment led to reduced levels of neurotoxins and stable or improved ALS functional scores.
Researchers found high levels of toxic metabolites produced by gut bacteria in MS patients' cerebrospinal fluid and plasma. The discovery suggests a potential therapeutic target for developing new MS therapies.
A recent University of Waterloo study shows that wearable biosensors can provide insight into patterns of health-related behaviour and disease symptoms, enabling remote monitoring of people with complex health conditions. The study found that participants were willing to wear multi-sensor devices for extended periods, highlighting the ...
Researchers have identified a new molecular component of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) pathological aggregates, a circular RNA called circ-Hdgfrp3. This circular RNA plays a crucial role in the formation and progression of ALS, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.
Researchers found that the SARS-CoV-2 N-protein accelerates the formation of amyloid fibrils in test tube experiments, interacting with α-synuclein protein. This interaction may contribute to the development of Parkinson's disease in COVID-19 patients.
Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that PQBP1 interacts with Tau protein to drive an immune response in the brain. The study reveals a mechanism of inflammation that functions in both viral infection and neurodegenerative disease.
Researchers developed a new technology that tracks thousands of cells and determines the precise moment of death for any cell in the group. The approach was shown to work in rodent and human cells as well as within live zebrafish, and can be used to follow cells over weeks to months.
The study, published in Nature Aging, found that sildenafil reduces the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease by 69% compared to non-users. Sildenafil also shows promise in treating the disease by increasing brain cell growth and decreasing hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins.
A new study developed by researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that a simple, self-administered test can identify early signs of dementia sooner than the most commonly used office-based standard cognitive test. The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination (SAGE test) accurately identified patients with mil...
A new Northwestern study reveals that brain motor neurons degenerate early in diseases like ALS, sending warning signals and showing defects. Targeting the brain's motor neurons could lead to long-term and effective treatment strategies.
Researchers discovered that eliminating α-endosulfine (ENSA) or blocking its function reduces brain changes and improves memory in mice. ENSA blocks a potassium channel, which, when blocked, combats excess ENSA levels associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers discovered that under stress conditions, proteasome molecules assemble into structures that induce cell death, a process linked to apoptosis and potentially preventing cancer. The study highlights the importance of understanding the normal functioning of cells and their connections to cancer development.
Researchers found that people with brain buildup but no dementia had normal tau protein, while those who developed plaques or tangles also had a different-handed form of tau. This suggests that a slowdown in autophagy, the process of clearing spent proteins, may be underlying cause of Alzheimer's disease.
Young veterans with mTBI experience premature cognitive decline in specific domains, matching elder normative scores and early-stage Parkinson's patients. The study highlights the significant negative impact of mTBI on cognitive function compared to healthy non-veterans.
A new research study reveals the emotional responses and coping strategies employed by family members of former athletes living with neurodegenerative disease. The study sheds light on the challenges faced by these families, who are often under immense strain, and calls for further support and care.
Researchers identified a significant vascular defect in patients with moderately severe Parkinson's disease, which may explain earlier study findings and provide a new target for therapeutic intervention. The discovery highlights the blood-brain barrier's crucial role in neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.
Researchers have used advanced microscopy to study the ultrastructure of huntingtin inclusions, revealing different mechanisms of aggregation that lead to distinct biochemical properties. The findings suggest targeting inclusion growth as a potential therapeutic strategy for slowing Huntington's disease progression.