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2 articles from the last 30 days matching "animal models"

ResearchBIORXIVApr 16

Preprint: A brain-persistent DDR2-degrading antibody reverses Alzheimer's pathologies by restoring brain fluid dynamics and metabolic clearance

Researchers found that a protein called DDR2 is overactive in Alzheimer's disease and may be blocking the brain's natural cleaning system. They developed an antibody (a type of immune protein) that can cross into the brain and reduce DDR2 levels, which in early studies helped restore the brain's ability to clear out harmful waste products and improved Alzheimer's symptoms in animal models.

WHY IT MATTERSThis research identifies a new therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease that works through a different mechanism than current treatments, potentially offering hope for patients whose disease progresses despite existing amyloid-targeting therapies.
👁 Watch this spaceAlzheimer's diseaseRead →
ResearchBIORXIVApr 12

Preprint: Complementary vertebrate Wac models exhibit phenotypes relevant to DeSanto-Shinawi Syndrome

Scientists created animal models (using fish and mice) that mimic DeSanto-Shinawi Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the WAC gene. These animal models showed symptoms similar to what patients experience, including developmental delays, intellectual disability, autism-like behaviors, and seizures. This research helps scientists understand how WAC gene mutations cause these symptoms and could lead to better treatments in the future.

WHY IT MATTERSFor the first time, researchers have created animal models that reproduce the key symptoms of DeSanto-Shinawi Syndrome, which could accelerate the discovery of why patients develop autism, seizures, and developmental delays—and potentially identify new treatment targets.
👁 Watch this spaceDeSanto-Shinawi SyndromeRead →

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