Discovery of the neuron that causes stuttering and abuse
WASHINGTON: It is possible that star-shaped neurons in our brains, astrocytes, interfere with people’s speech and cause them to stutter, says an internationally renowned expert in the study of stuttering.
Dr. Gerald A. McGuire and his colleagues have attributed the abnormal activity of astrocytes to neurons. Research shows that these cells are found in a corner of the brain called the striatum. This part controls the interaction and acquisition of organs.
In the process of stuttering, the speaker stutters and takes a long time to utter certain words, but initially we know that abnormal activity of dopamine neurotransmitter is also the cause. However, it was not yet understood at the cellular level.
One drug to prevent this is risperidone, which inhibits dopamine activity and also treats autism and other mental illnesses. Dr. Gerald found that estrocytes play an important role in inhibiting dopamine activity when taking medication. Astrocytes emit signals that trigger the release of dopamine. Thus, experts now understand the signals and molecular pathways of the process of stunting growth and prevention.
Ten people were then divided equally into two groups. In the double-blind study, one was given risperidone for six weeks and the other group was given a pseudo-drug (Play Cebu). He was then examined by various scanners including PET. The drug was found to increase glucose uptake and thus reduce the patient’s stuttering.
This is the first time that star-like astrocytes have played a significant role in the brain.
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