Welcome to your daily round-up of everything happening in the world of neurorehabilitation.
Research news
Unlocking the secret of degenerative brain disorders
A research team led by Dr. Kim Yun Kyung from the Brain Science Institute at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), in collaboration with Professor Chang Young-Tae’s team from Pohang University of Science and Technology, has announced the development of a next-generation neuron labeling technology called NeuM. NeuM (Neuronal Membrane-selective) selectively labels neuronal membranes, visualizing neuronal structures and allowing real-time monitoring of neuronal changes.
NeuM is expected to provide insights into research and therapy development for degenerative neurological diseases, for which there are currently no cures. These diseases, including Alzheimer’s, result from neuronal damage due to the production of toxic proteins such as amyloid and the influx of inflammatory substances. NeuM’s precise observation of neuronal changes can effectively facilitate the evaluation of candidate therapeutic compounds.
Neuron model paves the way for new Alzheimer’s therapies
Weill Cornell Medicine scientists have developed an innovative human neuron model that robustly simulates the spread of tau protein aggregates in the brain—a process that drives cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. This new model has led to the identification of novel therapeutic targets that could potentially block tau spread.
Fuelling nerve cell function and plasticity
Using a combination of imaging, viral tracing and electrophysiological techniques, a team of researchers led by Professor Dr Matteo Bergami at the University of Cologne’s CECAD Cluster of Excellence in Aging Research addressed this question in mouse models, have found that, as new neurons mature, their mitochondria (the cells’ power houses) along dendrites undergo a boost in fusion dynamics to acquire more elongated shapes. This process is key in sustaining the plasticity of new synapses and refining pre-existing brain circuits in response to complex experiences. The study ‘Enhanced mitochondrial fusion during a critical period of synaptic plasticity in adult-born neurons’ has been published in the journal Neuron.
Company and financial neuro-rehab news
Promising Results of Phase 0/1 Glioblastoma Study
The Ivy Brain Tumor Center at Barrow Neurological Institute has announced initial results from a Phase 0/1b clinical trial of AZD1390, in combination with radiation therapy, in newly diagnosed, MGMT-unmethylated glioblastoma. Results from this study will be presented at the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting and demonstrate that AZD1390 may be a potent radiosensitizer in both newly diagnosed and recurrent glioblastoma patients.
Deep TMS to treat Parkinson’s Disease
BrainsWay, a company developing advanced noninvasive neurostimulation treatments for mental health disorders, announced results published in a review article exploring the potential efficacy of Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS™) as a novel therapeutic approach for Parkinson’s Disease. Clinically meaningful improvements in motor symptoms were generally observed, and in those studies which assessed non-motor symptoms, improvements in daily living and mood symptoms were reported. Four of the studies also noted that severe patients benefited most from the treatment. Deep TMS was generally well-tolerated across all of the studies.
Technology news
Science department to coordinate UK neurotechnology action
The Regulatory Horizons Council (RHC) published recommendations on how the UK can support the safe and rapid development of neurotechnology. In a joint letter, the Minister for Science, Research and Innovation (DSIT) and Minister of State for Health and Secondary Care (DHSC) respond to the recommendations made within the report.
The letter reads: “We set up the DSIT to position the UK at the forefront of global scientific and technological advancement, which includes delivering regulation to support our economy, security and public services…
“We are therefore pleased to say that DSIT will be taking on responsibility for coordinating action on neurotechnology across government, ensuring that we support a growing UK sector, and champion a pro-innovation approach that will help to develop and launch technologies that could change people’s lives in the UK.”
