Scientists at UCLA have developed a groundbreaking drug, DDL-920, that has demonstrated the ability to fully restore motor function in mice after a stroke. This marks a significant advancement in stroke rehabilitation, potentially offering an alternative to long-term physical therapy.
🧠 How DDL-920 Works
DDL-920 targets parvalbumin neurons in the brain, which are crucial for coordinating movement. By stimulating these neurons, the drug reactivates brain circuits that were disrupted by the stroke, effectively mimicking the effects of physical rehabilitation. In studies, mice treated with DDL-920 showed significant improvements in movement control, comparable to those achieved through intensive physical therapy. view+2UCLA
🔬 Significance of the Discovery
Currently, there are no approved drugs that aid in stroke recovery, leaving patients to rely solely on physical rehabilitation. DDL-920’s ability to restore movement without the need for such therapy could revolutionize stroke treatment, especially for patients who cannot access or sustain rehabilitation programs.
🧪 Next Steps
While the results in mice are promising, further research and clinical trials are necessary to determine DDL-920’s safety and efficacy in humans. If successful, this drug could become the first pharmacological treatment to aid in stroke recovery, offering hope to millions of stroke survivors worldwide.
