New Genetic Form of Dementia
Carissa Bersche
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-10-rare-genetic-dementia.html
Alzheimers is caused by tau proteins. Areas of the brain that are dying have several tau proteins resulting in neurons with vacuoles in them. Surrounding a region of tau proteins in a deceased victim of an unknown neurodegenerative condition, it was discovered that there was a mutation in a VCP gene. The VCP gene allows proteins to both come together and separate, however, the mutated proteins are unable to separate, therefore, there is a build up which clogs the function of that region of the brain. Following this discovery the mutated VCP gene was compared to Alzheimers, where it showed remarkable similarity.
Is it reasonable to assume that boosting VCP protein function would allow tau proteins to separate?
What are some possible reasons that tau protein build-up is harmful?
Could it logically be assumed that a similar processes could be applied to the treatment of more mainstream cases of neurodegenerative conditions containing tau proteins, such as Alzheimers?
Darwich, N. (2020, October 02). Researchers discover a rare genetic form of dementia. Retrieved October 06, 2020, from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-10-rare-genetic-dementia.html
First off based off the research so far we can assume that the VCP helps tau proteins separate, With buildup that could be harmful for having to much in a certain area and they may start to mutate or damage. And it could maybe be researched but not assumed yet that this would work for another disease. -Tyler A.
ReplyDeleteIt can be assumed that boosting VCP function would allow proteins to separate. Tau protein build up is harmful as it clogs regions of the brain causing it to die. It can be assumed that if VCP plays a role in Alzheimers that modifying the VCP gene would have an impact on the progression of Alzheimers, however, it may not be the sole factor contributing to the disease.
ReplyDeleteCarissa Bersche
I think it is reasonable to assume that if we boosted the VCP protein function it would then allow the tau proteins separate more effectively. We would need more research done to confirm this. I would say tau protein buildup is harmful because it damages and impairs the brain from functioning properly. Cool topic! -Trinity Mathis
ReplyDeleteThe tau proteins are harmful because it causes neurons to develop vacuoles which causes neurodegeneration, decreased brain function, and decreased motor function.
ReplyDelete-Shirin Saha
boosting VCP function could potentially allow breakdown of these buildups, increasing neurological functionality and potentially be applied to cases of other neurological conditions. reasons that protein buildup can be harmful is that it disrupts neurological activities and inhibits normal functionality. - Nathan Clark
ReplyDeleteIf we were to boost the VCP protein function would allow more separation of the tau protein, though to confirm this more research and data would need to be found. If we can separate the tau proteins more efficient then there potentially wouldn't be such a build up of the tau protein.
ReplyDelete-Raquel Morgens
Tau protein build up is harmful because it comes together clumps up and damages brain cells that are used for learning and memorization. Not only do the tau proteins build up but they can also create tangles that can harm your brain cells creating Alzheimers.
ReplyDelete-Ilori