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Summary: Researchers reveal how astronauts can avoid the neuromuscular problems that occur as a result of extended space travel. Source: Doshisha University Among the many functions performed by skeletal muscles, one of them is maintaining our posture. If it weren’t for these muscles, the gravitational pull of the earth might make it difficult for us to get up and walk. The group of muscles—mostly in our legs, back and neck—that are responsible for maintaining posture and allowing us to move against the force of gravity are called ‘anti-gravity’ muscles. But what happens to these muscles when there is no gravity (or “unloading” force of gravity) to counteract them? That question may sound silly to some, but not to an astronaut on the International Space Station (ISS)! In space, where gravity is minimal, our muscles (especially anti-gravity ones) are not used much, which can lead to atrophy and changes in their structure and properties. In fact, human ca...

Summary: An experimental drug penetrating the brain is in development as a cancer treatment could promote regeneration of nerves damaged after spinal cord injury, researchers report. Source: University of Birmingham Scientists from the University of Birmingham have shown that a prospective brain-penetrating drug currently being developed as a cancer therapy could promote regeneration of nerves damaged after spinal trauma. The study, published today in Clinical Medicine and Translation used cell and animal models to demonstrate that when taken by mouth the drug candidate, known as AZD1390, can block the response to DNA damage in nerve cells and promote regeneration of damaged nerves, thereby restoring sensory and motor function after spinal cord injury. The announcement comes weeks after the same research team showed a different investigative drug (AZD1236) could reduce damage after spinal cord injury, by blocking the inflammatory response. Both studies were supported by the AstraZene...