breakthrough
schizophrenia and epilepsy could be linked
to immune system during pregnancy
R
esearchers from the
University of Queensland
say a protein usually
associated with the immune
system could play a role in the
development of neurological
conditions such as epilepsy and
schizophrenia. when this system is functioning as motor neuron disease, and the lab
inappropriately in utero,” Dr is working towards the development
Coulthard said. of new drugs to block disease
progression.
The study, led by Dr Liam
“We blocked a key complement
component, called C5a, for three
days during pregnancy, and this inhibiting this system could pose a
resulted in behavioural abnormalities risk in pregnancy and could prompt
in the offspring. recommendations they not be given
“Our research demonstrates this
“Our findings confirm that drugs
to women of child-bearing age,” Dr
Coulthard, examined how brain complement factor is essential for the Coulthard said.
development is affected by altering proper development of the brain and
the activity of the complement has a broader role in addition to its for this target to treat pregnancy-
system – which controls innate or function in the immune system.” related inflammatory diseases such as
natural immunity – during pregnancy. preeclampsia should be approached
inflammation pathways in
“Our research in mouse models
has shown neural defects can result
linkonline.com.au
C5a has been linked to
“Any development of drugs
with caution.”
neurodegenerative conditions such
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