Insight
A programme that connects brain injury survivors with technology developers has led to design changes in at least nine research projects, according to new findings. The initiative involves one-hour virtual sessions where innovators, including small-medium enterprises and clinicians, present their research plans to selected groups of patients with relevant expertise. More than 20 sessions have [...]
A clinical study examining immune system proteins in long COVID patients has identified potential biomarkers that researchers believe could help predict risk and guide treatment. The research analysed DNA and blood samples from 175 participants who had previously contracted COVID-19, measuring levels of immune proteins and genetic variants to understand their connection to persistent symptoms. [...]
In a new study, researchers show that some cell types in the immune system are activated more in patients who have Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s disease is best known for its effects on the central nervous system. In addition, recent scientific advances generally emphasise the role of the immune system in the presence and development of the [...]
A common sleep aid restores healthier sleep patterns and protects mice from the brain damage seen in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, according to new research. The drug, lemborexant, prevents the harmful buildup of an abnormal form of a protein called tau in the brain, reducing the inflammatory brain damage tau is known to [...]
The UK’s independent sentencing review - launched in October 2024 - aimed to address current prison and probation challenges and better support victims. The final report, published in May 2025, has been welcomed by brain injury charity Headway - which is now calling on the government to formally recognise and invest in increasing understanding of [...]
Grassroots rugby concussion guidelines need to be improved as players’ brains remain altered despite them being symptom free and cleared to play, researchers have found. The University of Essex is the first to follow an amateur club across a gruelling 22-game season using brain imaging technology. The study led by Dr Ben Jones found seven [...]
Researchers have captured a first-of-its-kind video of dynein-Lis1 protein interaction, supporting future drug development for neurological disorders. Our cells rely on microscopic highways and specialised protein vehicles to move everything - from positioning organelles to carting protein instructions to disposing of cellular garbage. These highways (called microtubules) and vehicles (called motor proteins) are indispensable to cellular [...]
During REM sleep, the body enters a state of paralysis. This can pose a danger for patients with weakened diaphragms due to neuromuscular diseases. Now new research published at the ATS 2025 International Conference has shown that antidepressants that suppress REM sleep are associated with improved survival in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The [...]
In 2014, Amanda Harris from Meisgyn was paralysed from the chest down after a cycling accident resulted in a spinal cord injury. Eleven years after her accident, and with the use of only one fully functioning leg, she has cycled approximately 300km over three days through Northern Italy in aid of Spinal Injuries Association. While [...]
After more than half a century, assessment of traumatic brain injuries is getting an overhaul. A new framework has been proposed that clinicians say will lead to more accurate diagnoses and treatment, providing more rigorous care for some patients and preventing premature discussions about halting life support in others. Trauma centres in the US will begin [...]
