Research shows that signaling molecules play role in brain injury

Injury to the brain can be catastrophic in Maryland and elsewhere, resulting in disability as well as a shortened life. Unfortunately, not much is known regarding how various injury levels impact the brain. However, a recent research study indicated that both time and molecules known as signaling molecules probably play a role in mild cases of traumatic brain injury.

In the recent research study, scientists divided mice into several groups and analyzed their brain samples. They learned that the molecules involved in a signaling pathway called the cAMP pathway appeared to contribute to brain injury mediation and recovery. This same signaling pathway helps with regulating a person’s heart rate, memory and stress levels.

Back in 2013, emergency rooms in the United States received nearly three million patients who had traumatic brain injury. Of these, 50,000 died. Concussions, also known as mild brain injuries, represent around 75 percent of the cases. Although some patients recover fully from their injuries, others end up with permanent disability and even dementia.

In some situations, traumatic brain injury occurs due to the carelessness of another person, such as the negligent driving of a fellow motorist in Maryland. In this case, the person who ended up suffering the brain injury may choose to file a personal injury claim against the party who caused his or her potentially life-changing injuries. Monetary damages in a successful case may help with covering the victim’s ongoing medical costs and the loss of wages, depending on his or her circumstances following the injury-causing incident.

Source: medicalxpress.com, “Brain protein changes could explain how concussions affect patients“, Jan. 17, 2018