Experts at the University of Washington have discovered an effective but long-forgotten stroke treatment, thanks to genetic markers in patients.
By analyzing over 5,000 gene profiles of patients suffering from ischemic stroke, the research team identified two genetic markers that could determine a patient’s condition within 24 hours after a stroke. The two prominent genes are ADAM32 and GluR1, both of which are linked to the activity of a neurotransmitter known as glutamate.
Glutamate is the most abundant free amino acid in the brain that is not bound to proteins. Scientists were surprised to find that glutamate has the potential to enhance the activation of neurons, a phenomenon referred to as the excitatory effect.
However, excessive glutamate can “stimulate” dead cells, leading to a condition known as “excitotoxicity”, which can result in a stroke. Clinical trials conducted decades ago failed, causing scientists to abandon this idea.
“Experts have long questioned whether excitotoxicity is truly significant in stroke recovery in humans,” said Jin-Moo Lee, head of the neurology department at the University of Washington and co-author of the study.
Experts discover two genes ADAM32 and GluR1 related to ischemic stroke. (Photo: Raw Pixel)
Blocking excitotoxicity has shown potential to cure strokes in mice. However, all human trials involving glutamate inhibitors have failed. The new findings regarding these two genetic markers in patients could influence treatments for neurotoxins and recovery after a stroke.
“This is quite remarkable. This is the first genetic evidence showing that excitotoxicity issues occur in humans as well, not just in mice,” Lee stated.
The researchers believe their work suggests that controlling glutamate and neurotoxins could be a potential method for preventing strokes.
Currently, doctors primarily use anticoagulants to treat ischemic strokes. These medications help restore blood flow to the brain, preventing damage and supporting brain function.
