In MS, the immune system attacks and damages myelin, which is the insulation on nerves in the spinal cord, brain and optic nerve. This causes the nerves to short-circuit. In "a potential game-changer," scientists have now demonstrated that a synthetic molecule can restore compromised myelin.
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A study led by scientists at Yale University has described the promising early-stage results of a new drug designed to mimic the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine, but without that drug’s dissociative psychoactive qualities. The experimental drug is currently in early phases of human testing.
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Researchers at Northwestern University have used a non-invasive form of magnetic brain stimulation to improve the memory of older adults. After just five short sessions the older adults scored as well as a younger cohort on a variety of memory tasks.
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Nobody likes having blood samples taken, which is why we've seen a number of devices that gather sweat from the skin and then analyze it. An inexpensive new bandage-like biosensor simplifies that concept, as it doesn't incorporate any electronic components.
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We have known for well over a century that exposure to certain environmental agents can result in DNA mutations that ultimately cause cancer. Now a team of UK scientists has developed a way to identify specific mutational signatures in tumors that can be linked to certain carcinogens.
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We owe our lives to our immune systems – without it, even the most minor of sniffles could be fatal. But the immune system makes mistakes too. Now, researchers at the University of Toronto have found that cavities might also be collateral damage from an overzealous immune system.
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It goes without saying that the greater the number of organs available for transplant, the better for patients in need of them. A newly-developed technique could help, as it uses light to kill viruses and bacteria that might otherwise make donated organs unsuitable for use.
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Scientiists continue to uncover new connections between the gut microbiome and human health. Another example of this are the emerging ties between gut health and autism, with an exciting new study demonstrating how fecal transplants can dramatically reduce its symptoms in the long term.
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There remains a lot to learn about ketamine and its close chemical relatives when treating depression. A new study has shed more light on how it can stave off depressive symptoms, with experiments on mice revealing how it repairs busted circuits in the brain.
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Because it doesn't show up in either blood tests or brain scans, Parkinson's disease can be frustratingly difficult to diagnose. A new device could help, however, by repeatedly bending the patient's finger. It may make diagnoses easier, and allow treatment to start earlier.
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