Scientists at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development have made a concerning discovery while studying stroke victims’ brains post-mortem. Their research revealed that a type of mobile DNA, specifically LINE-1 elements or “jumping genes,” become activated and copy themselves extensively in the brain cells surrounding the stroke area.
This activation is significant because LINE-1 elements are usually suppressed in adult brain cells to maintain genomic stability. Their uncontrolled copying and insertion into new locations within the genome can disrupt gene function and potentially contribute to further brain damage and neurological dysfunction.
The study, using advanced sequencing techniques, showed a substantial increase in LINE-1 activity in the neurons and glial cells surrounding the stroke. Researchers were able to pinpoint the exact locations of these new LINE-1 insertions within the genome. This finding suggests that stroke triggers a process that “unleashes” these dormant mobile DNA elements.
The implications of this research are considerable. It suggests that LINE-1 activation could be a contributing factor to the long-term cognitive decline and neurological problems experienced by many stroke survivors. Furthermore, understanding this mechanism may open new avenues for developing targeted therapies to suppress LINE-1 activity after a stroke, potentially mitigating secondary brain damage and improving patient outcomes. While the study is preliminary, it highlights a previously unknown consequence of stroke and suggests a novel therapeutic target.
find the original article here: https://www.yahoo.com/news/scientists-disturbing-discovery-analyzing-stroke-111542694.html