Fungal Molecule Discovery Could Lead to the Development of a Revolutionary Drug for Brain and Spine Injury Victims

Of all the injuries that one can experience in an accident, those involving the brain and spine are often the most devastating. even more concerning is that there is a lack of viable treatment options for individuals with serious brain or spinal injuries. For some, this can equate a loss in quality of life, perhaps permanently, and the possibility of long-term or lifelong disability. A new discovery could change all of that, or may at least mitigate some of the damage. The following explains further.

When a brain or spinal injury occurs, axons are damaged. These microscopic nerve fibers are critical to the central nervous system because they are responsible for carrying transmissions from the brain to the rest of the body. Unfortunately, they are also fragile. They struggle to regenerate once they have been damaged, and in some cases, may continue to deteriorate long after the injury has occurred.

Researchers now believe that a small fungal molecule, fusicoccin-A, may help to regenerate these damaged axons. As a result of that regeneration, spinal and brain injury victims could recover at least some of their lost functions.

Although the researchers have only just passed the preliminary testing phase of their discovery, they are optimistic that the fungal molecule could be used to create a drug. More than that, they believe the drug would be far more effective than any other treatment already available. In fact, the researchers stated that use of fusiccocin-A on damaged axons led to substantial growth and regeneration, to the point that axons were “growing like weeds.”

The ultimate goal is to determine exactly how and why the fusiccocin-A molecule worked, and to discover any underlying mechanisms that may have been behind the regeneration of axons. Further, they hope to find a bond that could be used for other therapies for other types of injuries that involve the central nervous system. For example, Alzheimer’s often causes degeneration of axons. It is possible that the drug could also help with this condition as well.

Even if the new drug is developed and successful, victims will continue to need legal assistance and compensation for injuries caused by negligence. Not only will they have medical costs for the treatment, they may still be unable to work or provide for their families. This is because no one really knows yet how greatly the regeneration will impact healing, or if there will be limitations for those who suffer the most severe types of injuries, such as cervical spinal injuries.

This is why Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard, LLP will continue to fight for victims. Our San Jose spine and brain injury lawyers understand that life changes after a catastrophic injury, and we believe that negligent parties should be held accountable. If you or someone you love has suffered a serious brain or spinal injury, call (408) 289-1417 and schedule your free consultation today.

• Molecule discovery may lead to new drugs for brain and spinal cord injury