Could brain protein help people 'sleep off' the flu?

Conclusion This complex study suggests the AcPb protein is playing a role in regulating normal sleep and the response to flu infection in mice. At this stage, the implications of this research for humans are unclear, as differences between the species may mean the results would not be exactly the same in humans. While The Telegraph suggests this "could finally lead to an effective treatment for the [flu], which until now has eluded experts", we are a long way off knowing whether this is the case. What the researchers have shown – in mice – is if you remove this protein, mice don't fight the virus as well. This does not necessarily mean giving mice more of the protein would make them fight it better. It also doesn't mean giving more of the protein wouldn't have side effects. Overall, this research is at a very early stage, with much more animal research needed before we know if we are closer to a flu treatment. There is currently no cure for the flu, so the most effective weapon against it is prevention, such as good basic hygiene procedures and the flu jab. The jab is recommended for people who are at risk of developing serious complications if they catch the flu, such as the over 65s, pregnant women, and people with a serious long-term illness. Read about the influenza vaccination and who should get it. Analysis by Bazian. Edited by NHS Choices. Follow Behind the Headlines on Twitter. Join the Healthy Evidence forum. Links To The Headlines Treatm...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Neurology Medication Heart/lungs Swine flu Source Type: news