Researchers believe that they have found a new treatment method for helping the blood brain barrier to heal. It has the potential to help those with injuries or health issues that have impacted this delicate part of the body recover more fully and lead to a higher quality of life.
The blood brain barrier is a highly specialized system that protects the brain from potentially harmful substances circulating in the bloodstream. It is a complex network of cells lining the blood vessels in the brain, forming a selective barrier. The barrier acts as a gatekeeper, allowing only essential nutrients, oxygen, and certain molecules to enter the brain while preventing the entry of toxins, pathogens, and most drugs. This barrier is formed by specialized cells called endothelial cells, which are tightly joined together, preventing the free flow of substances. Additionally, the barrier is reinforced by astrocytes, which provide structural support and help to keep up the integrity of the barrier. The blood brain barrier plays an important role in maintaining the brain’s balance and protecting the brain from potential damage.
This is very important for seniors, who can be at a higher risk of issues when it comes to potential health events, such as traumatic falls, stroke, and more. Damage to the blood brain barrier can cause issues with health and wellness, leading to an increased need for senior care.
This research was conducted on mice subjects and involved the formulation of a new therapeutic class of medication. The initial stages of the research indicate that this class of medication can be effective at healing and reduce the risk associated with a leaking blood brain barrier. This new drug works by looking at the brain’s communication regarding the barrier and improving it, essentially teaching the blood brain barrier to heal itself through improved brain signaling.
There are treatment methods out there that are aimed at helping to repair the blood brain barrier, but this new method is being described as a new generation of this type of drug. Hopefully, it proves to be effective. The study came out of Stanford Medicine. The team published their findings in the journal, Nature Communications. There’s a lot more work here that needs to be done, but hopefully this can be inspirational to future projects.
A brain injury or issues with cognitive functioning can be difficult for the entire family. It’s not just the person who is suffering that is impacted–it’s everyone. Having the right team to help out with needs on a day to day basis can make things a little bit easier.
If you’d like to talk more about how Paradise In-Home Care can contribute to your family’s team, let us know. We offer a free consultation service that is designed to inform and get you steered in the right direction. In-home care isn’t for everyone, and when it comes to brain and cognitive health, there are sometimes other services that can be even more beneficial.
But in-home care can help a lot of people and it can help an older loved one stay where they want to live. Give us a call or send an email to get your conversation scheduled.
Leave a Reply