Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding the genetic disorder Huntington’s disease by mapping the unique structure of protein clumps in the brain. A team of international scientists, led by Professor Patrick van der Wel from the University of Groningen, used computational modeling and experimental techniques to reveal the first detailed image of these disease-related clumps.
The study reveals new insights into the distinctive “fuzzy coat” that covers the surface of Huntington’s protein aggregates, which differ in shape and composition from those found in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The findings have significant implications for developing diagnostics and treatments, including monitoring disease proteins in patients during experimental treatments.
According to Van der Wel, knowing the structure of the protein clump is a critical piece of the puzzle in understanding how these proteins contribute to the disease. The research was supported by Huntington’s disease foundations, largely funded by families of patients and the general public.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/scientists-unveil-first-detailed-image-of-huntingtons-disease-fibrils