Brain Wave - Better knowledge of neuro signals gives new insight into brain disorders

Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have identified a protein crucial for maintaining the health and function of the nerve fibres that keeps the transmission of messages within the brain working smoothly. 

This research could help to improve the understanding of disorders such as epilepsy, dementia, multiple sclerosis and stroke. In these neurodegenerative disorders, electrical impulses from the brain are disrupted, leading to an inability to control movement which can also cause the muscles to waste away.  

The brain works like an electrical circuit, which sends impulses along nerve fibres. The fibres can measure up to a meter long, but the area covered by the segment of nerve that controls transmission of messages is no bigger than the width of a human hair.

The study identified that the protein Nfasc186 is crucial for maintaining the health and function of the segment of nerve fibres called the axon initial segment (AIS). The AIS and the protein within it, is important in ensuring the nerve impulse has the right properties to properly convey the intended message. The identification of this protein is central in identifying how the signals within the brain work, and therefore our knowledge of the critical processes involved in neurodegenerative disorders.

Decline in mental capacity, brain functioning and memory that affects day-to-day living. Full medical glossary
A tendency to have recurrent seizures. Full medical glossary
The basic unit of genetic material carried on chromosomes. Full medical glossary
A progressive disease of the central nervous system. Full medical glossary
Tissue made up of cells that can contract to bring about movement. Full medical glossary
Bundle of fibres that carries information in the form of electrical impulses. Full medical glossary
Compounds that form the structure of muscles and other tissues in the body, as well as comprising enzymes and hormones. Full medical glossary
Any sudden neurological problem caused by a bleed or a clot in a blood vessel. Full medical glossary