Research Suggests Cause Of Neurodegeneration In Huntington's Disease

Source: Emory University Health Sciences Center
Posted: May 30, 2006

Summary:

Sciientists have discovered that neurodegeneration associated with Huntington's disease may result from molecular mutations that block the transport of nutrients within cells. Research from the Emory University School of Medicine has shown that the mutant huntingtin protein limits the efforts of the huntingtin-associated protein ) to provide nutrients to growing neurons, or neurites. Without those nutrients, neurites fail to develop and mature neurons degenerate. Scienists say the protein is very important, because when an animal does not have it, it dies after birth. They also conclude that it is critical for differentiation and survival of some neurons in the brain. In addition, a better understanding about the functions of the protein could enable an clearer understanding the normal physiological processing for neuronal functioning, which could aid research into other neurodegerative diseases.

Commentary: This discovery seems to provide scientists with a new understanding of the root cause of Huntington's disease. Hopefully it will eventually lead to effective preventative treatments for Huntington's diseases as well as other neurodegenerative Diseases such as Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's or Lou Gehrig's Desease (ALS).