Mystery of the celestial dance between the twinkle and intellect
The brain, a complex organ that governs our thoughts, emotions, and actions, is the subject of constant fascination for scientists worldwide. Recent research published in the journal Cell Reports has shed new light on the intricate workings of the brain, offering potential therapeutic approaches for various neurological conditions.
The study, led by neuroscientists Thomas F. Pizzorusso and Toshihisa Hensch from IST Austria, focuses on the perineuronal net (PNN), a structure that envelops certain neurons, stabilizing existing connections between them and preventing new ones from forming. According to the research, the loss of the PNN lasts for seven days in mice after repeated ketamine treatments.
Ketamine, an essential drug for human surgery and recently approved for treating psychiatric symptoms, was found to cause microglia cells in mice to react, leading to the loss of the PNN. This discovery could open new therapeutic approaches for humans, particularly in treating conditions such as amblyopia, also known as the lazy eye. Untreated amblyopia can lead to permanent loss of vision.
Interestingly, light flickering at 60 hertz has a similar effect on the PNN as ketamine treatments, causing its loss and allowing for the restoration of brain adaptability. However, it's essential to note that blasting oneself with flickering light is not advisable.
Once the PNN is removed, neurons become sensitive to new input and can form new synapses. This re-establishment of brain plasticity could potentially overwrite traumatic experiences and treat post-traumatic stress disorder. It's important to be cautious when using these treatments, as they could potentially cause harm during formative periods.
The researchers want to investigate the molecular mechanisms behind their discovery, which are still not fully understood. They are also exploring the potential applications of these findings, such as promoting microglia to remove plaques in Alzheimer's disease, but it has been shown that light flickering at 40 hertz, not 60 hertz, has this effect.
In summary, the research by Pizzorusso and Hensch offers promising avenues for understanding and treating neurological conditions. The high-dosage ketamine treatment and 60-hertz light flickering are minimally invasive methods for removing the PNN and restoring the adaptability of a young brain. As more research is conducted, we may uncover even more ways to harness the power of the brain and improve the lives of those suffering from neurological disorders.
You can read the full study by accessing the DOI 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109313.
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