Neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s involve progressive neuronal loss due to disease-induced damage. An enzyme known as dual leucine-zipper kinase (DLK) plays a key role in this process. Now, in a new study published online April 3 in the journal Nature Communications, a group of scientists led by Gareth Thomas, PhD, Associate Professor of Neural Sciences in the Center for Neural Development and Repair at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, describes a more precise way to block DLK in damaged neurons, while preserving its function in healthy neurons. The groundbreaking research reignites interest in DLK inhibition as a treatment strategy for neurodegenerative disease at a critical time, as cases of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other conditions associated with neurodegeneration are poised to double by 2040. Medical Xpress, Bioengineer.org and Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News highlighted the research.
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