Katharina Buczek
The protein was then treated using a compound, called a positive allosteric modulator (PAM), to test the effect of increased function.
The researchers found that by enhancing mGlu1’s activity, certain interneuron’s activity also increased. In other words, they were able to control brain activity better.
This finding is game-changing for those affected by schizophrenia. James Maskymetz, a researcher apart of the study, spoke about how current treatment options are simply subpar.
He said, “Inadequate treatment responses and failures to address ‘negative symptoms’ and cognitive deficits result in poor patient outcomes. And, they incur a huge financial burden on the U.S. and global economies.”
Not only are the researchers hopeful that this treatment will provide much-needed patient relief, but they are also excited about its effect on memory.
The treatment actually reverses working memory deficits. This symptom of schizophrenia currently has no other treatment options.
Since the study has been published, there have been numerous inquiries into the mGlu1 protein that further studies are addressing.
Additionally, the researchers will need to analyze the long-term effects and identify side effects before this treatment can reach patients everywhere.
Until then, Maksymetz and the team believe the study’s finding is a stellar building block for the future.
“I truly believe that understanding how neural circuits function and dysfunction will lead to a revolution in treating neuroscience-related diseases,” he said.
To read the complete scientific study, visit the link here.
