Researchers have made a breakthrough in treating a muscle-wasting disease by using an implanted device that zaps the spinal cord with low levels of electricity. The device, already being tested for paralysis, has shown promise in helping people with spinal muscle atrophy (SMA) walk more easily.
Spinal muscle atrophy is a genetic disorder that gradually destroys motor neurons, leading to muscle wasting, especially in the legs and hips. There is no cure, but gene therapy can save the lives of young children with a severe form of the disease. Medicines are also available to slow down worsening in older patients.
A team led by Marco Capogrosso at the University of Pittsburgh tested the device on three adults with SMA. The results showed significant improvements in muscle strength and function, as well as increased walking distance. Participants were able to walk more easily for longer periods without fatigue, and even regained some mobility in limbs that had previously been paralyzed.
While the improvements were temporary, they persisted after the device was turned off. However, as time passed, the benefits faded away. The study’s findings suggest that this technology could be used to treat other muscle-degenerating diseases by stimulating sensory nerves to revive damaged muscle cells.
The research is small but promising, and scientists are eager to explore its potential further. Longer studies are underway at the University of Pittsburgh, which could lead to new treatments for SMA and other conditions.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/spinal-muscular-atrophy-stimulate-neurodegenerative-826a3ea658d4daa36b6b0671b162af3c