Fampridine is currently used to improve walking ability in multiple sclerosis. A new study shows that it could also help individuals with reduced working memory, as seen in mental health conditions like schizophrenia or depression.
Remembering a code for long enough to type it in; holding a conversation and reacting appropriately to what is being said: in everyday situations like these, we use our working memory. It allows a memory to be actively retained for a few seconds. Certain conditions, such as schizophrenia or depression, as well as ADHD, impair working memory. Those affected lose track in conversations and struggle to organize their thoughts.
The researchers also observed that fampridine increased brain excitability in all participants, thus enabling faster processing of stimuli. The study was randomized and double-blind."Fampridine doesn't improve working memory in everyone. But it could be a treatment option for those with reduced working memory," explains Andreas Papassotiropoulos.
The researchers did not select the drug at random: this study followed comprehensive analyses of genome data in order to find starting points for repurposing established drugs. Fampridine acts on specific ion channels in nerve cells that, according to the researchers' analyses, also play a role in mental disorders such as schizophrenia.
Multiple Sclerosis Research Pharmacology Chronic Illness Memory Mental Health Disorders And Syndromes Intelligence
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Multiple Top Philadelphia Phillies Pitching Prospects Expected to Debut in 2025The Philadelphia Phillies could be getting some pitching staff value from their farm system next season.
Read more »
7 dead, multiple people rushed to hospital after tragic Georgia ferry dock collapseToday's Video Headlines: 10/19/24
Read more »
At least 7 dead, multiple injured after gangway collapses on Georgia's Sapelo IslandAt least 20 people went into the water when the gangway collapsed.
Read more »
Experts warn against dangerous edibles after multiple children ingested what looked like candyExperts are warning parents against deceptive marijuana edibles after more than 17 students were medically evaluated Thursday after possibly consuming a banned substance that looked like candy.
Read more »
Multiple dead as ferry dock collapses in US state of GeorgiaGeorgia's Department of Natural Resources says search and rescue operations under way.
Read more »
Costco recalls multiple chicken products due to possible listeria contamination -- Here are the brands affectedToday's Video Headlines
Read more »