University of Virginia School of Medicine researchers have discovered a rare and powerful type of immune cell in the meninges around the brain, suggesting the cells may play a critical but previously unappreciated role in battling Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, meningitis and other neurological diseases, in addition to supporting our healthy mental functioning. By harnessing the cells’ power, doctors may be able to develop new treatments for neurological diseases, traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injuries – even migraines.
Further, the researchers suspect the cells may be the missing link connecting the brain and the microbiota in our guts, a relationship already shown important in the development of Parkinson’s disease.
Read the full article on the University of Virginia website.