Source: University of Illinois at Chicago
Posted: June 11, 2006
Summary:
Slowing the transport of proteins within cells may be connected to several adult-onset neurodegenerative diseases, such as Huntington's, ALS and Kennedy disease. Understanding how this cell transport is blocked in these diseases may offer targets for future therapy.
Researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine showed how a chemical pathway that is obstructed in Kennedy disease interferes with a cellular distribution system called "fast axonal transport" that moves proteins from where they are synthesized to where they are needed in the cell.
Researchers say mechanism for polyQ gene diseases that explains why only nerve cells die and why the terminals die before the cell body. The link to the activation of the JNK enzyme suggests a new therapeutic target that might limit, delay or perhaps prevent progressive neurodegeneration, the researchers conclude.
Commentary: This research seems to povide scientists with new strategies to treat neurodegenerative diseases.
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