Could Deep Brain Stimulation(DBS) Stop the Progression of Parkinson's Disease???? Researchers at the University of Cincinnati and University Hospital are saying "Yes". A new study conducted by Caryl Sortwell, PhD and Michael Behbehani, PhD suggests that with a certain percentage of DBS patients that is the case. The study indicates that a protein in the brain called BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) is increased by the technique. This protein is known to be a tropic factor that provides "a nurturing, growth chemical" and it is thought that it may be responsible for the slow down in progression that some patients exist.
The study does note that not all patients seem to have the same results from DBS. Some patients have a marked decrease in symptoms and a slower progression while others do not. There is no discussion of why some patients respond so positively while others do not.
I personally hope that more research will be done to isolate the difference among different patients to help find a way to help all patients. I would also love to see if there are other ways to increase BDNF in the brains of PD patients using other techiques. Could it be possible that this particular protein could help increase the quality of life for PD patients for numerous years? Could the brain help repair itself if the neuronal death is slowed or stopped? I am of the opinion that further research into these areas and questions is needed and needed soon.
To read one article about this study please click the link below.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/09/080902171151.htm
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
1 comment:
i was diagnosed of parkinson disease 5 years ago,i started azilect,then mirapex as the disease progressed in february last year,and i started on parkinson disease herbal medicine from ultimate life clinic,few months into the treatment i made a significant recovery,almost all my symptoms are gone,great improvement with my movement and balance,it been a year and life has been so good for me,reach them through there website at www.ultimatelifeclinic.com
.
Post a Comment