Innovative Approach Shows Promise in Limiting Brain Damage Post-Stroke
Researchers are developing an innovative microRNA inhibitor that could protect the brain and improve recovery after stroke, offering hope for more effective treatments beyond current options.
Recent research developments are offering new hope for stroke patients with the discovery of an experimental drug capable of protecting the brain and enhancing recovery after a cerebral vascular incident, commonly known as a stroke. This innovative therapy targets a small regulatory molecule called microRNA, which becomes abnormally elevated following a stroke. Elevated microRNA promotes inflammation, contributes to tissue loss, and results in neurological decline. By developing a next-generation inhibitor to block this harmful microRNA, researchers at UConn have opened the door to potentially reducing secondary brain damage.
MicroRNAs are non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression without translating into proteins. The team, led by assistant professor Rajkumar Verma and associate professor Raman Bahal, aimed to suppress multiple damaging processes simultaneously, unlike traditional drugs that target single proteins. Their approach aims to mitigate brain injury, decrease inflammation, and promote tissue repair.
Current stroke treatments, such as clot-busting medications and surgical interventions, are only effective in about 10 to 15% of cases, highlighting the urgent need for new therapies. Verma emphasized that no FDA-approved drugs currently exist to protect the brain after damage has begun, making this research particularly significant.
The experimental drug has demonstrated promising results in preclinical studies, showing decreased brain damage and improved movement, memory, and long-term recovery in mouse models. The drug's safety, potency, and duration of effect surpass previous candidates. The team has filed a patent for their microRNA inhibitor and is exploring collaborations with pharmaceutical companies to develop it into a clinical trial candidate.
This breakthrough could dramatically shift the landscape of stroke treatment, addressing the secondary damage that occurs hours after the initial event and potentially reducing disability and mortality rates associated with strokes. Further research and clinical trials are necessary to determine its effectiveness in humans.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-limit-debilitating.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Advancements in MRI Correction Techniques Enhance Brain Structure Insights in Children with ADHD
Innovative MRI correction techniques like the traveling-subject method are improving the understanding of brain structural differences in children with ADHD, offering potential for earlier diagnosis and personalized treatments.
Disparities in Predialysis Nephrology Care Impact Vascular Access Outcomes
Disparities in access to predialysis nephrology care among Hispanic patients significantly affect vascular access success in dialysis, highlighting the need for targeted healthcare interventions.
WHO Reports Nearly 100,000 Cholera Cases in Sudan Amid Escalating Crisis
The WHO reports nearly 100,000 cholera cases in Sudan amid ongoing conflict, displacement, and worsening health conditions. Urgent action is needed to address the outbreak and humanitarian crisis.
New Evidence Supports Use of Weight-Loss Medication for Schizophrenia Patients
A groundbreaking study shows that semaglutide, a diabetic weight-loss drug, is safe and effective for reducing obesity in people with schizophrenia without worsening psychiatric symptoms. This promotes better health outcomes for this high-risk group.