0
0
JERUSALEM, Feb. 25 – Israeli researchers have pioneered a method to measure the activity of a crucial cell-division gene in the brain, according to a statement released by Tel Aviv University on Tuesday.
This breakthrough, recently published in Nature Methods, could revolutionize the understanding of cellular growth and division, paving the way for potential treatments for cancer, autism, epilepsy, and other severe conditions.
Cells within the human body continuously adjust their size and division rate to adapt to their environment, a fundamental process for normal development. Any disruption in this mechanism can lead to serious health conditions, including cancer, neurological disorders, and developmental abnormalities. Proper regulation of cellular growth is particularly critical in early brain development during the first years of life.
A gene known as PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog) is instrumental in this regulatory process. It functions as a signal for cells to halt their growth, ensuring they maintain an appropriate size and state. Mutations that decrease PTEN activity have been associated with various conditions, including autism, epilepsy, and cancer.
The innovative tool developed by Israeli scientists enables the direct measurement of PTEN activity with high sensitivity across multiple research models, including in mouse brains. By integrating advancements in genetic tools and microscopy, this technology is expected to provide deeper insights into the role of PTEN in normal brain development and disease progression.
Researchers anticipate that this tool will facilitate the development of personalized therapeutics by monitoring PTEN activity in different biological environments. Additionally, it could aid in the early detection of PTEN-related diseases, improving diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a research study and is for informational purposes only. Further validation and clinical trials are required before these findings can be applied in medical practice.
