Latest news with #NationalInstituteofNeurologicalDisordersandStroke
Global News
17-07-2025
- Health
- Global News
8 babies born using 3-parent IVF method to prevent fatal genetic disease
Eight babies in the United Kingdom have been born using DNA from a third person to eliminate the risk of them developing an often fatal genetic disease. The method, referred to by the BBC as the three-person technique, was pioneered by a group of Newcastle-based British scientists and combines the egg and sperm of a mother and father with the healthy DNA of a second egg, donated by a woman to eliminate the risk of a baby developing mitochondrial disorders. The technique has been legal in the U.K. for 10 years, but proof that it is effective and leading to children being born without the disease is just beginning to emerge. Mitochondrial disorders are only passed down from the mother to the baby, and deplete the body of the energy it needs to sustain life. It can also cause severe disabilities, with some babies dying within days of birth. Story continues below advertisement The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says that such disorders can affect one or many parts of the body, including the brain, muscles, kidneys, heart, eyes and ears. While children born through the three-person technique inherit the majority of their DNA from their parents, about 0.1 per cent is passed on through the donor egg, and then through future generations. About one in 5,000 babies are born with mitochondrial disease, but this new technique means couples who may have lost one or multiple children to the fatal disorder before can try again while eliminating the risk of passing on the disease. View image in full screen Embryo selection for IVF, light micrograph. While the eight couples who used the method to have children have chosen to remain anonymous, they have shared statements detailing their experiences through the Newcastle Fertility Centre, where the procedures took place. Story continues below advertisement 'After years of uncertainty this treatment gave us hope — and then it gave us our baby,' the mother of a baby girl said, as reported by the BBC. Get weekly health news Receive the latest medical news and health information delivered to you every Sunday. Sign up for weekly health newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy 'We look at them now, full of life and possibility, and we're overwhelmed with gratitude,' she continued. Another mother of a baby boy said, 'Thanks to this incredible advancement and the support we received, our little family is complete.' 'The emotional burden of mitochondrial disease has been lifted, and in its place is hope, joy and deep gratitude,' she added. How the procedure works The science was created over a decade ago at Newcastle University and the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, in northern England, with a specialist NHS service opening in 2017. The eggs from the mother and the donor woman are fertilized in a lab using the dad's sperm. Two embryos develop until the DNA from the sperm and egg can be extracted from a structure known as the pronuclei, which determines features such as hair colour and height. The pronuclei are then removed from both embryos, and the parents' DNA is put inside the donor embryo with healthy mitochondria. Story continues below advertisement Two reports in the New England Journal of Medicine recorded 22 families who have undergone the process at Newcastle Fertility Centre, leading to the birth of four boys, four girls, a set of twins and an existing pregnancy. 'To see the relief and joy in the faces of the parents of these babies after such a long wait and fear of consequences, it's brilliant to be able to see these babies alive, thriving and developing normally,' Prof. Bobby McFarland, the director of the NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, told the BBC. All the babies born so far were born without mitochondrial disease and have met their developmental milestones. One child was born with epilepsy, which reportedly went away on its own, and another had an abnormal heart rhythm, which is being effectively treated. Neither is thought to be connected to defective mitochondria, though it is not known if they are related to the risks of IVF, the three-person method, or something that has been detected due to intense medical observation. There is also still doubt over whether defective mitochondria could be transferred to the healthy embryo and the potential consequences. In five cases, the diseased mitochondria were undetectable. In the other three, between 5 per cent and 20 per cent of mitochondria were defective in blood and urine samples. Story continues below advertisement Nonetheless, the rate of detection is below the 80 per cent level thought to cause the disease. Still, further research is needed to understand why the defective transfer occurred and if it can be prevented. Prof. Mary Herbert, from Newcastle University and Monash University, told the BBC: 'The findings give grounds for optimism. However, research to better understand the limitations of mitochondrial donation technologies will be essential to further improve treatment outcomes.' The U.K., as well as developing the science, was the first country in the world the legalize the procedure, which happened in 2015. The procedure is illegal in Canada and most other countries, but is also available in Australia and Ukraine. Global News reached out to Health Canada for comment but did not hear back by publication time.
Los Angeles Times
10-07-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Why Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is More Than Just a Typing Disorder
That buzzing, tingling, or numbness in your hand and fingers—the kind that wakes you up at night or makes it hard to button a shirt—is more than just a minor annoyance. It's your body's warning light. For millions of people, these sensations are the first signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), the most common nerve compression issue worldwide. It's a condition that can significantly impact your work, hobbies, and overall quality of life. The good news? Over the last decade, our understanding of how to diagnose and treat CTS has advanced dramatically. Whether you're just starting to notice symptoms or have been struggling for years, there's a clear path to relief. This guide will walk you through what's happening inside your wrist, bust some common myths, and explain the modern, effective treatments that can get you back to feeling your best. Imagine a narrow tunnel running through your wrist. This isn't a metaphor—it's a real anatomical space called the carpal tunnel. Through this passage run the tendons that flex your fingers and, critically, the median nerve. This nerve is a superstar; it provides sensation to your thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of your ring finger, and it controls the muscles at the base of your thumb [1]. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the space inside this tunnel narrows or the tissues within it swell, putting pressure on the median nerve. Think of it like a garden hose getting kinked. When the flow of water (in this case, nerve signals) is restricted, problems arise. The result is pain, numbness, tingling, and eventually, weakness in your hand and fingers [9]. As detailed in information from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, ignoring these signals can lead to permanent nerve damage [5]. Many people believe CTS is caused exclusively by typing on a computer all day. While repetitive hand and wrist movements are certainly a major risk factor, they are only one piece of a much larger puzzle. The development of CTS is often multifactorial. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a combination of personal and occupational factors often contributes. Other significant risk factors include: Blaming your keyboard alone oversimplifies the issue and can prevent you from addressing other underlying factors that are just as important for management and prevention. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first and most critical step toward relief. Your doctor will start by listening to your story—when the symptoms started, what they feel like, and what makes them better or worse. Next comes a physical examination. Your doctor may use a few classic in-office tests to try and reproduce your symptoms: While these tests are helpful, they aren't foolproof [7]. For a definitive diagnosis, your doctor will likely recommend electrodiagnostic studies. These tests, which include nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG), measure how well your median nerve is functioning. They are considered the gold standard for confirming CTS and determining its severity [8]. In some complex cases, an ultrasound or MRI might be used to get a better look at the structures in the wrist [6]. For most mild to moderate cases of CTS, the treatment journey begins with non-surgical, or 'conservative,' approaches. The goal is simple: reduce pressure on the median nerve and allow it to heal. A 2021 study confirms that a few key strategies are highly effective first-line treatments [2]. If your symptoms are severe, if you have muscle weakness, or if conservative treatments haven't provided enough relief, it may be time to consider surgery. The procedure, called a carpal tunnel release (CTR), involves cutting the ligament that forms the 'roof' of the carpal tunnel. This creates more space for the median nerve, instantly relieving the pressure. CTR is one of the most common and successful procedures in medicine. There are two main ways to perform it: Both techniques are highly effective [2]. However, studies suggest that the endoscopic approach often leads to a faster recovery and less immediate postoperative pain, allowing patients to return to their activities sooner [3]. The idea that surgery is a painful, last-ditch effort with a long recovery is largely outdated. For the right patient, it offers a definitive, long-term solution. Ultimately, there's no single 'best' treatment for everyone. The right approach for you will depend on the severity of your symptoms, your overall health, your daily activities, and the results of your diagnostic tests. The most advanced clinical thinking advocates for an individualized plan that combines all this information [8]. Working with your doctor, you can weigh the pros and cons of each option. Some patients find lasting relief with a simple night splint, while for others, surgery is the most direct path to restoring full hand function and ending the sleep-disrupting pain for good. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can feel like a frustrating and persistent intrusion on your life, but you don't have to just live with it. With a better understanding of the condition and a wealth of effective, evidence-based treatments available, relief is within reach. The key is to listen to your body's signals and seek medical guidance early. A proactive approach, guided by a healthcare professional, is your best bet for preventing long-term issues and ensuring a full recovery. For more in-depth patient information, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons provides excellent resources. [1] Genova, A., Dix, O., Saefan, A., Thakur, M., & Hassan, A. (2020). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Review of Literature. Cureus, 12(3), e7333. [2] Kokubo, R., & Kim, K. (2021). No shinkei geka. Neurological surgery, 49(6), 1306–1316. [3] Urits, I., Gress, K., Charipova, K., Orhurhu, V., Kaye, A. D., & Viswanath, O. (2019). Recent Advances in the Understanding and Management of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: a Comprehensive Review. Current pain and headache reports, 23(10), 70. [4] Zamborsky, R., Kokavec, M., Simko, L., & Bohac, M. (2017). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options. Literature Reviev. Ortopedia, traumatologia, rehabilitacja, 19(1), 1–8. [5] Dua, K., Osterman, A. L., & Abzug, J. M. (2017). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Initial Management and the Treatment of Recalcitrant Patients. Instructional course lectures, 66, 141–152. [6] Bickel K. D. (2010). Carpal tunnel syndrome. The Journal of hand surgery, 35(1), 147–152. [7] Wipperman, J., & Goerl, K. (2016). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Diagnosis and Management. American family physician, 94(12), 993–999. [8] Padua, L., Coraci, D., Erra, C., Pazzaglia, C., Paolasso, I., Loreti, C., Caliandro, P., & Hobson-Webb, L. D. (2016). Carpal tunnel syndrome: clinical features, diagnosis, and management. The Lancet. Neurology, 15(12), 1273–1284. [9] Joshi, A., Patel, K., Mohamed, A., Oak, S., Zhang, M. H., Hsiung, H., Zhang, A., & Patel, U. K. (2022). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pathophysiology and Comprehensive Guidelines for Clinical Evaluation and Treatment. Cureus, 14(7), e27053. [10] Ashworth N. L. (2011). Carpal tunnel syndrome. BMJ clinical evidence, 2011, 1114.
Time of India
29-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Parkinson's doesn't start in the brain? Shocking new study reveals the real origin
Image credits: Getty Images Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second-most neurodegenerative disorder in the United States. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, as many as 1 million Americans have Parkinson's Disease. Until now it was believed that Parkinson's disease begins with a gradual loss of nerve cells in the brain, particularly those producing dopamine, a neurotransmitter vital for movement. This leads to a decline in dopamine levels leading to symptoms such as tremors, stiffness and slow movement. Now, a new study published in Nature Neuroscience, suggests that the disease actually begins from a shocking body part- the kidneys. The team of researchers from Wuhan University in China performed the study primarily focused on the alpha-synuclein (a-Syn) protein, which is closely associated with Parkinson's. When the production of this protein becomes uneven, it creates clumps of misfolded proteins that interfere with brain function. As per the research, the clumps of this protein can develop in the kidneys as well and thus the researchers are of the belief that these abnormal proteins might actually travel from the kidneys to the brain, triggering the disease. "We demonstrate that the kidney is a peripheral organ that serves as an origin of pathological α-Syn," wrote the researchers in the published paper. The shocking study Image credits: Getty Images To carry out the study, the team ran multiple tests to analyse the behaviour of the protein in genetically engineered mice and human tissue that included samples from people with Parkinson's disease and chronic kidney disease. The team found abnormal a-Syn growth in the kidneys of 10 out of 11 people with Parkinson's and other types of dementia related to Lewy bodies. In another sample batch, similar protein malfunctions were found in 17 out of 20 patients with chronic kidney disease, even though these people had no signs of neurological disorders. In animals, mice with healthy kidneys cleared out injected a-Syn clumps, but mice whose kidneys weren't functioning faced protein built-ups that eventually spread to the brain. The study also analysed the fact that these proteins move through the blood and if they are reduced in the blood, the damage to the brain can be decreased. This point needs to be noted as an inspiration for new strategies of treatment.
Hindustan Times
24-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Salman Khan reveals struggle with brain aneurysm: Know about the medical condition, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment
During his appearance on the first episode of The Great Indian Kapil Show season 3, Salman Khan dropped a bomb as he casually revealed to his fans the medical issues that he is currently battling. The superstar shared that he has a brain aneurysm, trigeminal neuralgia, and AV malformation. Salman Khan shared on The Great Indian Kapil Show that he has a brain aneurysm, trigeminal neuralgia, and AV malformation. While trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition which causes intense pain, like an electric shock, on one side of the face, AV malformation is an abnormal tangle of blood vessels that causes problems with the connections between your arteries and veins. It most often occurs in the spinal cord and in the brain, but can develop elsewhere in the body as well. per the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Meanwhile, brain aneurysms are a severe medical condition that, if not treated, can be disastrous. Even though a brain aneurysm is common, if it ruptures, it can become life-threatening. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Anil Venkitachalam, consultant neurologist, KJ Somaiya Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, explained what this medical condition is, the risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment. What is an aneurysm? According to Dr Venkitachalam, an aneurysm is an enlargement or ballooning of a brain artery, which can rupture and cause a brain haemorrhage. 'Awareness of risk factors, warning symptoms, and advantages of early screening and diagnosis will prevent rupture and enhance patient outcomes,' he stressed. The risk factors: Women and adults are at danger Per the neurologist, there are many important risk factors that make the development of a brain aneurysm more likely. Here are some important risk factors: First-degree relatives with brain aneurysms Genetic predisposition Smoking Hypertension Age and sex 'Aneurysms occur more often in women and in adults, and some genetic diseases, including polycystic kidney disease, are risk factors. Smoking is one of the important risk factors for aneurysm development and rupture, and high blood pressure can make blood vessel walls weaker and more susceptible to aneurysm formation,' the neurologist explained. Headaches are linked to brain aneurysm. (Pexels) Warning symptoms Here are some warning signs of a brain aneurysm that you should look out for, per the neurologist: Severe headache Nausea and vomiting Changes in vision Seizures and visual disturbance Weakness or numbness Prevention Dr Venkitachalam stressed that early detection and screening are indeed important in preventing rupture and enhancing patient outcomes. 'Early diagnosis facilitates preventive treatment, which prevents rupture and its catastrophic outcomes. Early diagnosis can also enable less invasive procedures, including endovascular coiling or clipping, which can greatly enhance patient outcomes and minimise morbidity and mortality,' he explained. Treatment Per Dr Venkitachalam, surgical clipping, endovascular coiling, or flow diversion are some of the treatments based on the size and location of the aneurysm. 'Based on the size and location of the aneurysm, aneurysm shape and morphology, and the patient's health, neurosurgeons and neurologists evaluate the risk of rupture. Treatment or observation depends on the patient's risk factor profile, aneurysm characteristics, and overall health,' the neurologist explained. 'An unruptured brain aneurysm can be a source of great anxiety and distress. Supportive treatment like counselling and therapy, support groups, education and awareness can assist an individual in dealing with anxiety and emotional distress,' he added. Lastly, Dr Venkitachalam suggested educating oneself about the condition and treatments to assist in making informed choices. 'Patients with an unruptured aneurysm need to work closely with their treatment team to create an individualised treatment plan and discuss concerns about psychological and quality-of-life issues,' he advised. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
23-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Salman Khan reveals he has a brain aneurysm, trigeminal neuralgia and AV malformation; what are these medical issues
Jun 23, 2025 06:42 PM IST A few months ago, Bollywood's Bhaijaan Salman Khan left his many fans worried with his appearance in viral videos. Many netizens wondered if Bhaijaan was facing health issues, but they took a breath of relief when the actor clarified that he looked this way due to sleep deprivation and a hectic schedule. However, last weekend when Salman graced the first episode of The Great Indian Kapil Show season 3, he gave fans a cause to worry again as he casually revealed medical issues that he is currently battling. The superstar shared that he has a brain aneurysm, trigeminal neuralgia and AV malformation. But what do these terms mean and how serious is his condition? Salman Khan on Kapil Sharma's show According to the Mayo Clinic, a brain aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain. If the brain aneurysm leaks or ruptures, it causes bleeding in the brain, which is known as a hemorrhagic stroke. Even though a brain aneurysm is common, if it ruptures it can become life-threatening. Trigeminal neuralgia, on the other hand, is a chronic pain condition which causes intense pain, like an electric shock, on one side of the face. It affects the nerve which carries signals from the face to the brain. The pain can be triggered even by light activity such as brushing teeth or applying makeup. Meanwhile, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke describes AV malformation as an abnormal tangle of blood vessels that causes problems with the connections between your arteries and veins. It most often occurs in the spinal cord and in the brain but can develop elsewhere in the body as well. During his appearance on Kapil Sharma's comedy show, talking about recent divorce and alimony cases in the society, Salman shared, 'Hum ye jo daily ki haddiyaan tudwa rahe hain, pasliyaan toot gai, trigeminal neuralgia ke sath kaam kar rahe hain, aneurysm hai brain mein uske bawajood kaam kar rahe hain. AV malformation hai, uske bawajood chal rahe hain. All of this is going on in my life. Aur jahan unka mood satka, woh aadha humara leke chala gaya.' We hope Bhaijaan takes good care of himself as he prepares to bounce back on the silver screen soon.
