Blood protein triggers scars in the brain after injury; New target might help aid recovery for patients with traumatic injuries
Wednesday, April 28, 2010 - 00:31
in Health & Medicine
A protein called fibrinogen that is known to help form blood clots also triggers scar formation in the brain and spinal cord, according to new research. Researchers found that fibrinogen carries a dormant factor that activates when it enters the brain after an injury, prompting brain cells to form a scar. Scars in the brain or spinal cord can block connections between nerve cells and often keep injury patients from reaching full recovery.