Scientists at UCLA recently made an exciting discovery about a protein called netrin-1, which is important for how the spinal cord develops. Before this, researchers thought netrin-1 only worked as a "signpost," guiding neurons (nerve cells) to the right places during development. But this new study, published in Science, shows that netrin-1 also acts like "scaffolding," giving neurons the support they need and keeping the spinal cord organized. This unexpected role is key to making sure the spinal cord works properly.
This research could have a big impact on how we understand spinal cord injuries and developmental disorders. If netrin-1’s structural role is disrupted, it could cause problems with how neurons are arranged and how signals move through the spinal cord.
This discovery builds on earlier research from 2017 that looked at how netrin-1 helps neurons find their way and connect with each other. Published in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, that study showed netrin-1 works with special receptors to guide neuron movement and help form the brain's wiring system. Together, these studies show that netrin-1 does more than guide neurons, it also supports them, making it an important protein for neural development.
I think these findings are really exciting because they could lead to new ways to treat spinal cord injuries and other nerve-related issues. If scientists can figure out how to use netrin-1’s dual functions, they might be able to fix damaged nerve circuits or even prevent some developmental problems. This discovery also shows how even proteins we thought we understood can have surprising and important roles.
SITES USED
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20241115/UCLA-researchers-discover-netrin1s-unexpected-role-in-spinal-cord-development.aspx
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5372507/
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