New Cellular Defense Mechanism against Stress

     

     Scientists studying neuronal malfunctioning, long thought to be a result of a cell’s reaction to stress, may have unlocked a new understanding and even a treatment plan for the future. Science Daily explains that neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s are caused in part by a cell’s reaction – or lack thereof – to stress. Scientists from Harvard and NYU have identified a protein modification that signals for the cell to begin protein synthesis, in turn strengthening and protecting the cell from attack.

     Oxidative attack – the focus of this research – is when cells are exposed to hazardous conditions (pollution, cigarette smoke, radiation). Exposure to these stimulates the stress response in cells to begin degradation of weak or damaged proteins. It is speculated that with less impaired proteins in the way, the cell can begin protein synthesis and restructure itself. Using this new research, scientists may be able to harness the removal of such proteins and one day focus on a treatment plan for neurodegenerative diseases.