Production of toxic protein causes common neurodegenerative disorder
Thursday, April 18, 2013 - 11:53
in Biology & Nature
Researchers have recently discovered that an expansion of DNA in patients with the common neurodegenerative disorder Fragile X-associated tremor syndrome causes the production of an abnormal protein that is toxic to neurons. The findings suggest an unexpected process by which DNA expansions might lead to neurodegenerative diseases -- including Huntington's disease and ALS. This discovery reveals a common feature among these diseases that could be targeted to treat affected individuals.