Vascular growth and brain protection

"A nourishing protein that promotes the growth of neurons and blood vessels appears to stop the progression of a genetic disease that causes degeneration of the cerebellum, according to new preclinical research. The disease, spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, typically strikes people in the 30s and 40s and eventually causes death."

The key protein is called Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, VEGF. It is known to stimulate the growth of healthy blood-vessel linings. We know for a fact that healthy blood vessels are important to maintaining healthy brains! Without them, we get strokes, not to mention this type of ataxia.

The funding-hungry researcher's first thought is, "How do we turn this into a drug?"

The smart clinician's first thought is, "How do we improve vasculation, oxygenation and circulation in safe, endogenous, sustainable ways from youth onwards?"

Don't need FDA approval for that. Just takes fresh food, fresh air, clean water, and safe activity.

Clinicians, if you're puzzled about how to get all that for your patients, call your legislators (use the link on the right to find them) and share your concerns. Those letters after your name are worth more than you might think.