뇌졸중 후유증 생기는 원인 세계 첫 규명...치료제 내년 임상 돌입<br /><br /> Strokes are one of the leading causes of death in South Korea.<br />Local researchers have discovered a new mechanism to explain the effects of strokes that could pave the way for the development of a new approach for cure.<br />Park Se-young has more. <br /> A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted.<br />It is life threatening and can also lead to lasting brain damage, causing symptoms like speech disorders.<br /><br />"Diaschisis, a change in function in a portion of the brain other than the damaged area, can slow stroke recovery and worsen after-effects."<br /><br />For the first time ever, Korean researchers have discovered what causes the after-effects of strokes. <br /> When strokes occur, star-shaped neurons are activated away from the affected area. <br />The researchers found that the neurons release an excessive amount of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which combines with surrounding nerve cells and destroys brain cell function.<br /> They also demonstrated that blocking GABA synthesis in rats for two weeks restored their motor and sensory functions. <br /><br />"They couldn't recover with rehabilitation alone, but with both exercise and treatment, they recovered by nearly 80 percent."<br /><br /> The researchers believe their findings can be used to help treat other brain disorders.<br />They plan to begin full-scale clinical trials early next year.<br />Park Se-young, Arirang News. <br />
