Researchers combined intact neurons from a rat's spinal cord with a tissue-engineered 3D muscle system, creating a biohybrid robot, or biobot. After culturing the system for seven days, the motor neurons from the spinal cord produced electrical activity, causing contractions in the artificial muscles and mimicking the behavior of the peripheral nervous system. The findings could have positive implications for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders that affect motor control.
The TBK1 gene regulates the disease progression of ALS in mouse models of the neurodegenerative disease. Loss of the TBK1 gene in motor neurons increases SOD1 aggregation and accelerates the onset of the disease.
When a motor neuron-specific pool of heat shock protein 90 (Hps90) was inhibited, motor neuron apoptosis was triggered.
A new fruit fly study reveals a simple genetic system is behind complex movements. The finding sheds light on motor control issues associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
Using fruit fly models of ALS, researchers discover neurons given glucose transform the power source into energy, enabling them to survive longer and function better.
Zolgensma, an FDA approved gene therapy, supplements the production of the SMN protein to improve motor neuron function in children with spinal muscular atrophy after just one dose.
Neurons in the motor cortex of rats fall into two categories, those that are externally focused and relay information to other parts of the body, and those that are internally focused. When inhibition is increased, the externally focused neurons switch to internally focused cells.
Changes in gene expression help researchers identify ALS associated pathways and establish the key drivers of motor neuron degeneration in the disease.
Researchers have identified the gene STMN2 as a novel biomarker and potential drug target for ALS.
Researchers report, in restless leg syndrome, neurons targeting muscles may be responsible.
A new study reports those with ADHD are at an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study reveals people with ADHD are twice as likely to develop early onset Parkinson's between the ages of 21-66. Additionally, those who are prescribed stimulant medications to help reduce ADHD symptoms, including Ritalin and Adderal, are at a 6-8 times increased risk of developing Parkinson's.
A new study questions previous assumption about how Parkinson's disease develops and progresses.