Protecting cells: Evidence found for a neuronal switch to prevent neurodegenerative diseases
Wednesday, August 24, 2011 - 13:31
in Health & Medicine
Scientists at Northwestern University report a surprising discovery that offers a possible new route for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. In a study of the transparent roundworm C. elegans, they found that a genetic switch in master neurons inhibits the proper functioning of protective cell stress responses, leading to the accumulation of misfolded and damaged proteins.