Neuron published the study.
Here are five observations:
1. The researchers looked for genes which regulate neuron growth, and found Cacna2d2 helps with synapse formation and function.
2. Cacna2d2 encodes the blueprint of a protein, which is involved in regulating the calcium particle flow into a cell. Calcium impacts cellular processes, including neuron communication.
3. The researches decided to administer the drug, Pregabalin, to mice with spinal cord injures. Pregabalin binds molecular anchors of calcium channels.
4. In the study, Pregabalin promoted the growth of new nerve connections.
5. The researchers concluded that “synapse formation acts as a powerful switch that restrains axonal growth, but a drug like Pregabalin could alter this and serve as a regenerative treatment for patients with SCI.
More articles on spine:
Drs. Bradley Chris, Jason Bessey and more: 5 spine surgeons in the headlines this week — Oct. 3, 2016
The role of biologics in the next 5 to 10 years: 6 spine specialists weigh in
Neurosurgeon Dr. Yoshua Esquenazi joins UTHealth, Memorial Hermann Mischer Neuroscience Institute — 5 highlights
