“New technique in which brain cells are reprogrammed could one day provide a cure for Parkinson’s disease,” The Independent reports.Researchers, using mice with Parkinson’s disease, “reprogrammed” cells to replace the nerves lost in the condition. These nerves produce the messenger chemical dopamine, and help to coordinate body movements. Parkinson’s is a neurological condition, of unknown cause,
“Depression and cancer drugs offer hope for dementia sufferers,” Sky News reports. The headline is prompted by a study looking at the effect of two drugs – one used to treat depression and another being trialled for cancer treatment – on neurodegenerative diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases are conditions that cause progressive damage to the brain’s functions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and CJD (aka
“Doing moderate exercise several times a week is the best way to keep the mind sharp if you’re over 50,” BBC News reports. A review of existing data found both aerobic exercise and strength training appeared to improve cognitive functions, such as memory, attention, and how well people carry out tasks. The review brought together information
