Misleading claims of 'cure for Down's syndrome'

Conclusion This is interesting research investigating the effects on brain structure, learning and memory of using a chemical to treat mice with a condition similar to Down’s syndrome. The research found some positive results including normalisation of the structure of the cerebellum and improvements in learning and memory in the water maze test. However, it is far too early to say whether a similar treatment could be developed for use in humans, and what its effects might be. The chemical used mimics the effect of the Sonic hedgehog protein, which is naturally found in our bodies. This protein is essential for a wide range of developmental processes in the body. Any treatments related to this protein would need to be closely studied to make sure that they did not interfere with any of these vital processes. In an accompanying press release one of the study authors, Professor Roger Reeves of Johns Hopkins University, adds due caution about the unknown safety of the compound in humans, and the possibility for serious side effects. He says, “The problem is that altering an important biological chain of events like sonic hedgehog would likely have many unintended effects throughout the body, such as raising the risk of cancer by triggering inappropriate growth. But now that the team has seen the potential of this strategy, they will look for more targeted ways to safely harness the power of sonic hedgehog in the cerebellum”. Professor Reeves further highlights that even l...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Genetics/stem cells Source Type: news