Mexican Develops Technique To Reprogram Alzheimer's Affected Neurons



The Mexican scientist hopes to reverse the neuronal damage caused by the disease
The Mexican Luis Carrillo, neurobiologist at the National Autonomous University of Mexico ( UNAM ), has developed a method capable of reprogramming circuits or neuronal groups affected by degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Carrillo explains that its main objective is to change activity patterns in specific neuronal groups.

How?


Using optogenetics and two photon microscopy to control neurons that have been genetically linked with light-sensitive proteins, called opsins, which glow when the cell is active.

Optogenetics is a technique used to turn neuronal groups on and off based on the use of light. While two photon microscopy allows visualization and manipulation of living tissues up to a millimeter deep.
Carrillo tested his technique for four years at Columbia University , in New York, where he demonstrated that selective stimulation created a type of artificial memory, capable of counteracting the effects of degenerative diseases.

Present

Today, the Mexican is seeking financing and carrying out projects with Conacyt , in order to establish technology in Latin America.

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