Japanese scientists have successfully used induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells to treat spinal cord injuries in monkeys, achieving significant functional recovery. The team transplanted iPS cell-derived neural precursor cells into monkeys with spinal cord lesions. This treatment led to improvements in limb function, allowing the monkeys to regain the ability to walk on a treadmill with support within six weeks. While the research is still pre-clinical, it represents a promising step towards developing effective stem cell therapies for human spinal cord injuries.
Scientists have identified a potential mechanism by which aspirin may inhibit cancer metastasis. Research suggests aspirin's anti-inflammatory effects disrupt the communication between cancer cells and platelets, which normally help cancer cells travel through the bloodstream and establish secondary tumors. By blocking a specific pathway involving the protein HMGB1, aspirin prevents platelets from shielding cancer cells from the immune system and supporting their survival in new locations. This discovery could lead to new cancer treatments or more effective use of aspirin for cancer prevention, though further research is needed.
HN commenters discuss the limitations of the study, pointing out that it's in mice, a small sample size, and doesn't establish causation. Some express skepticism about the reporting, noting that the BBC article doesn't mention the specific cancer types studied or the dose of aspirin used. Others raise concerns about the potential side effects of long-term aspirin use, like gastrointestinal bleeding. A few commenters offer alternative explanations for the observed effect, such as aspirin's anti-inflammatory properties. Several highlight the need for human trials to confirm these findings and determine safe and effective dosages. Finally, some express cautious optimism about the potential of repurposing existing drugs like aspirin for cancer treatment.
Migraine, often misconstrued as a simple headache, is a complex neurological disorder affecting the entire nervous system, not just the head. Research is shifting away from focusing solely on blood vessels to exploring broader neural mechanisms, including sensory processing abnormalities and the role of brain regions like the hypothalamus. This new understanding opens avenues for developing more effective treatments targeting these specific mechanisms, offering hope for better management and relief for migraine sufferers.
HN commenters generally agree with the article's premise that migraine is a serious neurological disease deserving of more research and better treatment. Several shared personal anecdotes highlighting the debilitating nature of migraines and the inadequacy of current treatments. Some discussed the stigma associated with migraine, often dismissed as "just a headache." A few commenters offered insights into potential causes and treatments, including CGRP inhibitors, magnesium supplements, and avoiding trigger foods. One compelling comment thread focused on the genetic component of migraine, with users sharing family histories and discussing the possibility of a genetic predisposition. Another interesting discussion revolved around the link between migraine and other neurological conditions, such as epilepsy and autism. Overall, the comments reflect a strong desire for a more nuanced understanding of migraine and more effective ways to manage it.
Fluoxetine, a common antidepressant, was found to protect mice from sepsis-induced death by enhancing metabolic defenses. The study revealed that fluoxetine promotes a shift in macrophage metabolism toward fatty acid oxidation, increasing mitochondrial respiration and ATP production. This metabolic boost enables macrophages to effectively clear bacterial infections and mitigate the harmful inflammation characteristic of sepsis, ultimately improving survival rates. The protective effect was dependent on activation of the serotonin 1A receptor, suggesting a potential mechanism linking the drug's antidepressant properties with its anti-septic action.
HN commenters discuss the study's limitations, noting the small sample size and the focus on a single antibiotic. They question the translatability of mouse studies to humans, emphasizing the differences in immune system responses. Some highlight the potential benefits of fluoxetine's anti-inflammatory properties in sepsis treatment, while others express concern about potential side effects and the need for further research before clinical application. The discussion also touches upon the complexity of sepsis and the challenges in finding effective treatments. Several commenters point out the known link between depression and inflammation and speculate on fluoxetine's mechanism of action in this context. Finally, there's skepticism about the presented mechanism, with some suggesting alternative explanations for the observed protective effects.
A Parkinson's patient in the UK reports feeling "cured" after receiving an adaptive deep brain stimulation (DBS) device. Unlike traditional DBS which delivers constant electrical pulses, this new device monitors brain activity and adjusts stimulation accordingly in real time. Tony Howells, diagnosed 15 years ago, experienced significant improvement in his tremors and mobility after the device was implanted, allowing him to return to activities like gardening and playing golf. While researchers caution against using the word "cure," the adaptive DBS technology shows promise for personalized and more effective treatment of Parkinson's disease.
HN commenters discuss the exciting potential of adaptive DBS for Parkinson's, but also express caution. Some highlight the small sample size and early stage of the research, emphasizing the need for larger, longer-term studies. Others question the definition of "cured," pointing out that the device manages symptoms rather than addressing the underlying disease. Several commenters delve into the technical aspects of adaptive DBS, comparing it to previous open-loop systems and speculating on future improvements in battery life and personalization. A few share personal anecdotes about family members with Parkinson's, expressing hope for this technology. Finally, some raise concerns about the cost and accessibility of such advanced treatments.
Summary of Comments ( 31 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43459264
Hacker News users discussed the potential impact and limitations of the stem cell treatment highlighted in the linked article. Some expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the early stage of the research and the need for larger, longer-term studies to confirm the efficacy and safety of the treatment. Others pointed to previous instances of promising stem cell therapies that ultimately failed to deliver in larger trials. A few commenters discussed the regulatory hurdles and the potential cost of such a treatment if it becomes widely available. Several users also questioned the specific type of stem cells used and the mechanism of action, wishing the article provided more scientific detail. The general sentiment leaned towards cautious hope tempered by a realistic understanding of the complexities of translating early research findings into effective clinical treatments.
The Hacker News post titled "Japanese scientists use stem cell treatment to restore movement in spinal injury" has generated several comments discussing the linked article about a new stem cell treatment.
Several commenters express cautious optimism, acknowledging the exciting potential of stem cell therapies while emphasizing the need for further research and larger trials. One commenter points out the long history of stem cell research, noting previous breakthroughs that haven't translated into widespread clinical success, urging a "wait-and-see" approach. They also highlight the importance of verifying the results through rigorous peer review and independent replication.
Concerns about the limited scope of the study are also raised. Commenters note the small sample size and the specific type of spinal cord injury addressed. One points out that the treatment appears effective only for "incomplete" injuries, where some nerve connection remains, questioning its applicability to more severe, "complete" injuries. Another raises the issue of the short follow-up period, emphasizing the need for long-term observation to assess the treatment's durability and potential side effects.
The discussion also touches on the regulatory landscape surrounding stem cell therapies. A commenter mentions the more permissive regulatory environment in Japan compared to the US, suggesting this might contribute to faster progress in Japanese research. Another highlights the challenges of translating promising research into widely available treatments, citing the complexities of clinical trials, regulatory approval, and manufacturing scale-up.
Some comments delve into the scientific details of the treatment. One commenter questions the mechanism of action, asking how the transplanted cells could restore function so rapidly. Another discusses the potential role of neurotrophic factors secreted by the transplanted cells in promoting nerve regeneration.
Finally, several comments express hope for the future of stem cell therapies, particularly for spinal cord injuries and other currently incurable conditions. They acknowledge the long road ahead but express excitement about the potential for these treatments to transform lives.