Scientists discover why damaged nerves struggle to heal
Scientists at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have identified a protein, AHR, that acts as a 'brake' on nerve regeneration after injury. Blocking this protein in mouse models has shown promise in improving the recovery of movement and sensation.
Why it matters
This discovery provides a potential therapeutic target for treating spinal cord injuries and peripheral nerve damage, which currently have limited recovery options.
Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have identified a molecular mechanism that appears to restrict the ability of injured neurons to regrow damaged axons. The findings, published in the journal Nature , suggest that blocking a protein known as the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) could promote nerve regeneration and improve recovery after damage to peripheral nerves or the spinal cord.
Axons are long extensions of nerve cells, or neurons, that transmit signals throughout both the central and peripheral nervous systems. These fibers are essential for communication between nerve cells. When axons are damaged or severed, recovery depends heavily on whether neurons can rebuild those connections.
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