All articles tagged with #spinal cord
A West Virginia family discovered that four sisters share a rare brain condition called Chiari malformation, which affected their development and required multiple surgeries, highlighting the potential genetic aspect of this rare disorder.
Four sisters from the Higginbotham family were diagnosed with the rare brain condition Chiari malformation, leading to multiple surgeries and a challenging journey, but they are now enjoying a healthier, happier life thanks to timely medical interventions.
A new study reveals that the spinal cord, specifically Galanin-expressing neurons, actively participates in regulating male sexual arousal and ejaculation in mice, challenging the traditional view that the brain solely controls these behaviors and highlighting the spinal cord as an integrated, active component in sexual function.
New research challenges traditional views of the spinal cord's role, revealing that it can independently learn and remember movements, shedding light on its contribution to mastering and automating movement. The study, published in Science, identifies two neuronal populations that enable the spinal cord to adapt and recall learned behavior independently of the brain, potentially enhancing rehabilitation strategies for spinal injury patients.
Researchers have discovered that a specific gene expressed in spinal nerves plays a crucial role in memorizing responses to potential threats, challenging the notion that motor learning and memory are solely confined to brain circuits. Through a study on transgenic mice, they found that inhibitory neurons in the spinal cord can learn novel responses long after the nerves have locked in place, shedding light on how the spinal cord can remain plastic throughout life. This understanding could inspire novel research into treatments for nervous system damage in humans, particularly in improving recovery after spinal cord injury.
Researchers have discovered that the spinal cord possesses its own learning and memory capabilities, independent of the brain, through two distinct neuronal populations. This groundbreaking finding challenges the traditional view of the spinal cord as a simple relay station and opens new possibilities for rehabilitation strategies following spinal injuries. The study sheds light on the spinal cord's role in movement and could lead to innovative approaches for enhancing recovery in patients with spinal damage.
A 32-year-old man's two-year struggle with premature ejaculation and painful ejaculations was found to be caused by a rare cyst near the base of his spinal cord, leading to compression of sacral nerves. After undergoing surgery to remove the cyst, the man experienced significant relief from his symptoms, highlighting the importance of considering spinal examinations in cases of unexplained premature ejaculation.
Chinese scientists claim to have discovered a unique group of cells in the spinal cord that contribute to the ageing process and may be mitigated with vitamin C supplements. These cells, which surround motor neurons, are believed to accelerate ageing and affect mobility. The seven-year study involved researchers from three labs and aimed to fill a knowledge gap in understanding the relationship between ageing and the spinal cord. Animal experiments showed that vitamin C supplements improved ageing-related indicators in motor neurons, suggesting potential benefits for anti-ageing.
Rice University engineers, supported by a $6.25 million grant from the National Institutes of Health, are working to optimize nanoelectronic threads (NETs) for use in the spinal cord. These NET probes have already been successful in gathering data from neurons in the brain and can provide both neuronal activity recordings and localized stimulation. By integrating the NETs into a larger-scale data-processing system, researchers hope to gain a better understanding of spinal cord function and potentially develop new therapies for spinal cord injuries and associated medical conditions.
A man who was paralyzed from the waist down after a motorcycle accident over a decade ago is now able to walk again with the help of a surgical procedure aided by artificial intelligence. Researchers at Lausanne University Hospital inserted electronic implants in the areas of the patient's brain and spinal cord that control movement and built a "digital bridge" between his brain and spine, bypassing his injuries and essentially putting his thoughts into action. The breakthrough was described as using AI as a thought-decoder that processes what the neurons in the brain region are trying to do and sending that signal to the spine.
A 40-year-old man who was paralyzed in a cycling accident 12 years ago can walk again thanks to brain and spinal cord implants. The brain-spine interface (BSI) has remained stable for a year, allowing Gert-Jan Oskam to stand, walk, climb stairs and traverse complex terrains. The research team restored communication between Oskam's brain and spinal cord with a digital bridge, and he participated in 40 sessions of neurorehabilitation throughout the study. Researchers are also working to see if similar devices can restore arm movement.
Gert-Jan Oskam, who was paralyzed after a motorcycle accident 12 years ago, can now walk, climb stairs, and complete chores thanks to computer-aided brain and spinal cord implants. The implants, developed by Onward, connect to an external computer worn as a backpack and allow signals from Oskam's brain to prompt his legs to move. Oskam's progress has been astounding, and the technology has been life-changing for him. The system has additional trials planned, and the study author is optimistic that it will pave the way to helping many others walk again.