Finding clues for nerve cell repair

[Guest guest]

Finding clues for nerve cell repair

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-06/mnia-fcf060308.php

A new study at the Montreal Neurological Institute at McGill

University identifies a key mechanism for the normal development of

motor nerve cells (motor neurons) - cells that control muscles. This

finding is crucial to understanding and treating a range of

conditions involving nerve cell loss or damage, from spinal cord

injury to neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, also known as Lou

Gehrig's disease.

Nerve cell regeneration is a complex process. Not only do nerve cells

have to regenerate, but just as importantly, their specific and

individual connections need to be regenerated also. The study,

published recently in the Proceedings of the National Academy of

Sciences, provides invaluable insight into these vital processes by

understanding the mechanisms involved in normal development of

selected types of spinal cord motor nerve cells.

Motor neurons are highly specialized. They have distinct

characteristics and connect to specific muscle types in specific

regions of the body. " These highly targeted nerve cell-to-muscle

connections are determined in part by specific patterns of gene

expression during embryonic development. More specifically, certain

genes are expressed which tell the neuron what its properties will

be, where to settle and which particular muscle to connect with, "

says Dr. Stefano Stifani, neuroscientist at the Montreal Neurological

Institute and lead investigator in the study.

When nerve cells develop they require characteristic patterns of gene

expression in order to become motor neurons or another type of nerve

cell called interneurons. Dr. Stifani and colleagues show that during

development, motor nerve cells have to express certain genes that

continually suppress interneuron developmental characteristics.

" We have identified a key factor, called Runx1, which controls the

correct development of motor neurons in the upper part of the spinal

cord. Runx1, a factor that controls gene expression, helps motor

neurons to maintain their status by regulating the expression of

specific genes. In doing so, it might also help motor neurons find

their target muscles. "

Understanding the normal development and the highly specialized

nature of nerve cells has important implications for understanding

diseased or damaged nerve cells. For example, in ALS, the motor nerve

cells that are involved in swallowing and controlling the tongue are

often the first to degenerate. Knowing the specific patterns of gene

expression of different motor nerve cells may help to explain why

certain motor neurons are more susceptible to degeneration and help

identify new targets for treatments.

[Guest guest]

Sweet!!

Thanks for this Gretchen and all recent great posts!

We will find a cure soon or at least a significant reversible treatment!