\ ALS Research \ Molecule discovered that might help ALS Patients
The study suggests, though, that miR-206 only works for a limited period of time. While it slows the progression of ALS in mice, eventually surviving nerves will no longer be able to compensate for damage done to other nerves and ALS symptoms will develop. The findings in this study match that which is apparent in human ALS: until a large fraction of motor neurons dies, ALS is nearly asymptomatic.
These findings may help researchers develop drugs to treat ALS. “Because miR-206 only exists in skeletal muscle, a drug based on it might not affect other tissues. That limits its risk of side effects and is a key part of its appeal as a potential therapy,” Olsen said.
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Molecule discovered that might help ALS Patients
University of Texas researchers identified a molecule that reduces symptoms and prolongs life in mice with a type of ALS, according to a study in the Dec. 11, 2009, issue of Science. Lead author Eric Olson, PhD, chairman of molecular biology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, found that the molecule called microRNA-206 (miR-206), which is produced naturally by skeletal muscles as a response to ALS-caused nerve damage, slows the symptomatic effects of ALS. This molecule acts like a chemical signal for nerves to compensate for damage: sensing nerve injury, promoting regeneration, and guiding new nerve endings so they maintain interactivity with muscles.The study suggests, though, that miR-206 only works for a limited period of time. While it slows the progression of ALS in mice, eventually surviving nerves will no longer be able to compensate for damage done to other nerves and ALS symptoms will develop. The findings in this study match that which is apparent in human ALS: until a large fraction of motor neurons dies, ALS is nearly asymptomatic.
These findings may help researchers develop drugs to treat ALS. “Because miR-206 only exists in skeletal muscle, a drug based on it might not affect other tissues. That limits its risk of side effects and is a key part of its appeal as a potential therapy,” Olsen said.
| Posted On: Friday, January 08, 2010 Modified: Friday, January 08, 2010 Category: ALS Research Posted By: |