Scientists Identify Protein That Heightens Neurodegenerative Disease
Scientists Identify Protein That Heightens Neurodegenerative Disease Credit: UT Southwestern A fluorescent image displays reactive gliosis – a condition found in many neurodegenerative diseases – in the cerebral cortex induced by astrocyte-expressed GADD45G, the protein product of the Gadd45g gene. Reactive astrocytes are shown in red and reactive microglia are green, both common glial cell types.PreviousNext Newswise — DALLAS – May 29, 2025 – UT Southwestern Medical Center scientists have identified a protein that appears to act as a master control switch for reactive gliosis, a prominent feature of many neurodegenerative diseases that is thought to contribute to their pathology. The researchers’ findings, published in Neuron, could eventually lead to new treatments for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases and other neurodegenerative conditions. “Reactive gliosis can help the nervous system adapt to stressful conditions to continue healthy functioning, but it can also b...