In a recent study published in Nature Communications, researchers identified biliary NF-κB-inducing kinase (NIK) as a pivotal regulator of ductular reaction, as observed in mouse models. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying liver fibrosis and could have implications for the development of new treatments for this condition.
Transgenic Mouse Models May Assist with Parkinson’s Breakthrough
Research in the past few decades has revealed a link between alpha-synuclein aggregates in the brain and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s. Until recently, though, scientists have not understood how those aggregates originate and spread. But a new experimental study using transgenic mouse models may change that. Researchers are hopeful that this new understanding of …
ALS Mouse Models Reveal Key Changes in Astrocytes
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease or Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a degenerative disease that impacts the nervous system. Unfortunately, there are currently no effective treatments, and most ALS patients die within three to five years of diagnosis. As researchers desperately seek treatments for this devastating illness, one type of specialized …
Animal Models Support Research into Autism and Inflammation
The Mayo Clinic reports that individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to experience more gastrointestinal symptoms, including pain, constipation, and diarrhea, than their peers. Unfortunately, scientists have not yet established how digestive symptoms are linked to ASD. However, Harvard Medical School and MIT researchers may have found the key. These researchers worked with animal …
Mouse Model Confirms Importance of Amyloid β Peptide in AD Research
The number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease is expected to nearly triple by 2060. This statistic is alarming, but researchers are constantly working to slow the disease’s progression and improve symptoms in Alzheimer’s patients. Now, Science Daily reports that experts found that blocking a specific protein could improve Alzheimer’s symptoms. The researchers used the …